Where We Work

The demographic structure of Africa

Throughout the world, there has been a tremendous population surge over the past six decades, and Africa has been at the centre of this growth. Africa's population expanded from 283 million in 1960 to more than 1.5 billion in 2024, and is projected to increase by a further 950 million by the year 2050. This will mean that 28% of the world's population in 2050 will be located on the African continent.
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It is further estimated that by 2050, 17.5% of the projected 2.5 billion people living in Africa will be between the ages of 15 and 24 years.
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Given this rapid population growth and youthful demographic, Christian education in Africa has a critical opportunity and responsibility to shape the values, leadership, and spiritual formation of the next generation.

The structure of the African Church

The African Church is remarkably diverse, both in structure and demographic composition. It spans a wide range of denominations, including Protestant, Catholic, Pentecostal, Evangelical, and African Independent Churches, each with distinct governance models—from centralised hierarchies to decentralised, locally-led congregations.

According to the most recent edition of the World Christian Encyclopedia, Africa is home to 26% of the global Christian population, despite accounting for only 18% of the world’s total population. This makes Africa the continent with the highest proportion of Christians worldwide. In comparison, Latin America accounts for 24% of the global Christian population, followed by Europe (23%), Asia (15%), North America (11%), and Oceania (1%).

Rapid urbanization and population growth have contributed to the dynamic expansion of churches in both rural and urban areas. While many churches maintain traditional roots, there is a growing trend toward contemporary expressions of worship, discipleship, and community engagement.
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This vibrant and growing Christian presence plays a vital role in shaping the cultural, social, and moral fabric of African societies.

Christian schooling in Africa

Christian education plays a significant and growing role across Africa, with thousands of schools offering faith-based instruction from early childhood through secondary levels and beyond. These schools are operated by a wide range of denominations and independent Christian organisations, each integrating biblical values with academic excellence.
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Christian schools in Africa serve diverse communities – urban and rural, affluent and underserved – often providing not only education but also moral formation, leadership development, and holistic support for students and families.
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It is challenging to determine the exact number of Christian schools across Africa, due to diverse reporting standards and the vast number of institutions spread across the continent. However, it is estimated that there are over 90,000 Christian schools in Africa.

As the demand for quality, values-based education continues to rise, Christian schools remain at the forefront of shaping future leaders with integrity, compassion, and a strong sense of purpose.

Endnotes

1. UNECA. (2024, July 12). As Africa’s population crosses 1.5 billion, the demographic window is opening; getting the dividend requires more time and stronger effort [Blog post]. United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. (Accessed May 14, 2025).
2. Johnson, T. M., & Zurlo, G. (2020). World Christian Encyclopedia (3rd ed.). Edinburgh University Press.