Umlazi is one of the largest townships in South Africa, located in the KwaZulu-Natal province. According to the most recent estimates and census figures, Umlazi’s population is just over 400,000 residents, with the 2011 national census recording the population at 404,811[3]. By 2015, the population was reported as 405,062[1]. Recent estimates continue to place Umlazi’s population at over 400,000[2][4][5].
Covering an area of approximately 45.1 to 47.5 km², Umlazi is also one of the most densely populated urban areas in the country, with population densities reported at over 8,500 residents per km² as of 2011, increasing to nearly 9,000 residents per km² by 2015[1][3][8].
Demographic highlights from the 2011 census include:
- Gender balance: Roughly 49.5% male and 50.5% female[1].
- Age: Median age of around 25 years, pointing to a predominantly young population[1].
- Ethnic composition: Vast majority Black African (over 99%), with small numbers of Coloured, Indian/Asian, and White residents[3].
- Language: Over 90% of residents speak Zulu as their first language, followed by Xhosa, English, and other South African languages[3].
Between 1975 and 2015, Umlazi experienced rapid population growth, with an increase of 98.1%. From 2000 to 2015, the area saw a further 14.1% increase, influenced by urban migration, higher birth rates, and economic opportunities in nearby Durban[1][2][5].
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