Global report on human settlements 2007, disaster facts and figures: Africa
Africa, the world’s second-largest and second most-populous continent is home to 900 million people, accounting for approximately 14 per cent of the world’s population. Africa is the fastest urbanizing region in the world, exposed to risks associated with chaotic urbanization. In 2005, urban populations were recorded at 39.7 per cent in Africa and are projected to increase to 53.5 per cent by 2030. Cities generate the potential for substantial losses from single large disaster events, creating new challenges for risk management. The region’s vulnerability is further aggravated by poverty, conflict, chronic disease and weak governance.