Sudan Rate of Natural Increase

Sudan’s rate of natural increase (RNI)—the difference between its crude birth rate and crude death rate—remains relatively high compared to many of its neighbors, reflecting its youthful population and high fertility rates. As of the early 2020s, Sudan’s RNI hovers around 2.3% per year, indicating robust population growth. In contrast, Egypt, to the north, has a lower RNI of about 1.6%, due to declining fertility and increased urbanization. To the east, Eritrea and Ethiopia have RNIs similar to Sudan, at approximately 2.0% and 2.4% respectively, driven by high birth rates and improving health conditions. South Sudan, to the south, has an even higher RNI—around 3%—reflecting both high fertility and a recovering post-conflict population despite health challenges. Chad and the Central African Republic, to the west, also exhibit high RNIs, though CAR’s is tempered by ongoing conflict and higher mortality rates. Overall, Sudan’s RNI is among the higher rates in the region, surpassed mainly by South Sudan, and remains a key factor in its rapid population growth and demographic challenges.

Data from US Census International Database