Mauritania, located in Northwest Africa, has experienced remarkable demographic growth over the last seven decades. In 1950, the population was just 658,000, but by 2024 it had risen to 5.17 million. This represents nearly an eight-fold increase in under a century.
Looking ahead, Mauritania is expected to continue growing steadily, reaching over 17 million people by 2100. This sustained expansion poses both opportunities and challenges, especially in terms of urbanization, resource management, and economic development.
Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
Mauritania’s population history can be divided into three major phases:
- 1950–1975: Early Growth
- From 658,000 in 1950 to 1.28 million in 1975, driven by improvements in health, nutrition, and stability.
- 1976–2000: Accelerated Expansion
- The population more than doubled, from 1.3 million in 1976 to 2.6 million in 2000.
- 2001–2024: Modern Demographic Boom
- Between 2000 and 2024, the number of inhabitants more than doubled again, reaching 5.17 million.
Future Population Projections for Mauritania (2025–2100)
Mauritania is projected to continue growing throughout the 21st century:
- 2030: ~6.06 million
- 2050: ~9.42 million
- 2075: ~13.73 million
- 2100: ~17.12 million
This growth will reinforce Mauritania’s position as a fast-expanding African nation, though it will also require significant investment in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
FAQ
Mauritania’s population in 2024 is estimated at 5.17 million.
Mauritania crossed the 1 million mark in the late 1960s.
The country’s population has nearly doubled every 25–30 years since 1950.
By 2050, Mauritania is projected to reach around 9.4 million people.
By 2100, Mauritania’s population is expected to grow to 17.1 million, nearly triple its 2024 size.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.
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