Throughout history, humans have been a migratory species. Today, more people reside in countries different from their place of birth than ever before.
Migration has been a central element of Africa’s societal fabric for centuries, much like in other parts of the world. The continent has a long history of people moving around, both within and beyond its borders.
In the past, this movement was often influenced by trade, wars, and colonialism. However, nowadays, globalization, urbanization, and conflict have emerged as key drivers. Business Insider Africa recently wrote about how African billionaires are fleeing their home continent.
Whether in the past or today, this lifestyle has had a big impact on Africa’s economy, society, and politics.
Migration in Africa offers economic advantages such as increased labour market participation, inflows of remittances, and opportunities for entrepreneurship. Additionally, migration stimulates innovation and entrepreneurial activities in home countries.
However, migration is also accompanied by some social challenges, including tensions over resources, identity, and integration, particularly in urban areas with high migrant populations.
Based on available data from Statista, South Africa had the highest number of immigrants among all African countries as of July 2020, hosting 2.9 million people. Côte d’Ivoire followed with 2.6 million international migrants.
Among the macro-regions, Eastern Africa hosted the highest number of international migrants in Africa, with 7.68 million. Western Africa followed with some 7.55 million migrants.
Below are 10 African countries with the highest number of international migrants:
| 1 | South Africa | 2.86 |
| 2 | Côte d’Ivoire | 2.56 |
| 3 | Uganda | 1.72 |
| 4 | Sudan | 1.38 |
| 5 | Nigeria | 1.31 |
| 6 | Ethiopia | 1.09 |
| 7 | Kenya | 1.05 |
| 8 | Democratic Republic of Congo | 0.95 |
| 9 | South Sudan | 0.88 |
| 10 | Libya | 0.83 |
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