New population estimates offer magisterial district detail

It addresses the growing concerns among planners on the lack of contemporary and/or accurate population estimates at magisterial district in particular.

The report estimates the total population of South Africa as at June 2010 at approximately 49.9 million with an estimate that KwaZulu-Natal accommodates the largest proportion (21%) of the South African population while the Northern Cape houses the smallest percentage (2%). Population estimates for South Africa by province and selected magisterial districts are reflected in Table 1 below.

Table 1 - South African Estimated Population for the Most-Populated Magisterial Districts Per Province

The 63-page report provides essential population estimates for South Africa for decision makers who use demographic estimates up to magisterial level in particular. The estimates have particular relevance for land use planners, housing/community development planners, planners working in developing areas, transport planners as well as planners operating in the public (e.g. water supply planning, planning of new schools, parks etc.) and private (e.g. residential commercial development) sectors. The full report may be purchased from the BMR.