South Africa Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

South Africa, state of southern Africa; 1.2 million km², 57.8 million residents (2019).South Africa borders in the north to Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe and in the east to Mozambique and Swaziland, encloses Lesotho and has the south-east, south and southwest coast to the ocean. The country has three official capitals: Bloemfontein, Cape Town and Pretoria.

Country facts

Republic of South Africa / Republic of South Africa
Country abbreviation: ZA
Area: 1.2 million km²
Population (2019): 57.8 million residents
Capital cities: Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Pretoria
Main languages: Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Cyril Ramaphosa (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 6,340
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 5,720
Currency unit: 1 rand = 100 cents
Currency code: ZAR
Country number (telephony): 27
Internet Domain Name: za
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: April 27 (the first general democratic elections, 1994)
Independence Day: May 31, 1961

Nature

Land use: forest (5%), agricultural land (12%), other (85%)
Highest mountain: Injasuti (3,408 m above sea level)
Longest river: Orange River (1,860 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 48 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.1%; birth rate 20 ‰, death rate 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (29%), 15-64 (65%), 65- (6%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 62 years, women 68 years
Infant mortality (2019): 22 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 82 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.699 (place 113 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 66%
Most populous cities (2011): Johannesburg (4.4 million residents), Cape Town (3.7 million residents), Durban (3.4 million)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (3%), industry (30%), service (67%)
Exports (2017): US $ 94,930 million
Main export products: gold, diamonds, platinum
Main exporting countries: China, USA, Germany
Imports (2017): US $ 89 360 million
Main import products: machinery, means of transport, chemicals
Main importing countries: China, Germany, USA
Railway network (2014): 21,000 km

Geography of South Africa

Location and Size

South Africa is located at the southern tip of the African continent, bordered by Namibia to the northwest, Botswana and Zimbabwe to the north, Mozambique and Eswatini to the east, and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans to the south and southeast, respectively. The country also shares maritime borders with the island nations of Saint Helena, Ascension Island, and Tristan da Cunha. South Africa has a land area of approximately 1.22 million square kilometers (471,011 square miles), making it the 24th largest country in the world. It is renowned for its geographic diversity, which includes mountains, plateaus, deserts, forests, and coastlines, all contributing to the country’s unique landscape.

The country has three capital cities: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), and Bloemfontein (judicial). Cape Town is also a major cultural and economic center, situated on the southwestern coast, at the convergence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

Topography and Natural Features

South Africa’s topography is highly varied, with dramatic contrasts in its landscape. The central region is a vast plateau, known as the Highveld, which is characterized by flat or gently rolling land. This plateau is surrounded by mountain ranges such as the Drakensberg Mountains, which form the eastern escarpment of the plateau and rise to over 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) at their highest point, the Mafadi Peak. The Great Karoo, a semi-desert region, lies to the west of the plateau and is sparsely populated due to its arid conditions. The western coastline is dominated by the cold Benguela Current, while the eastern coastline enjoys a warmer climate due to the Agulhas Current, leading to significant differences in biodiversity along the coasts.

The country is also home to numerous rivers, including the Orange River, which forms part of the boundary between South Africa and Namibia, and the Limpopo River to the north. These rivers have been historically important for trade, agriculture, and settlement. South Africa’s coastline spans over 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles), providing access to both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and playing a key role in international trade.

Climate of South Africa

Varied Climate Zones

South Africa experiences a wide range of climates due to its varied topography and latitude, with regions experiencing everything from semi-arid and desert conditions to temperate climates. The country lies mainly between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Southern Ocean, which influences its climate.

The majority of South Africa has a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The Highveld and surrounding areas experience warm to hot summers with afternoon thunderstorms, and relatively cool winters. The Cape region, including Cape Town, experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The southeastern coastal region has a subtropical climate with high humidity, while the northern regions experience higher temperatures, particularly in the Lowveld and desert areas, where temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F) during summer.

Rainfall Patterns

Rainfall is mostly concentrated in the summer months (November to February) across much of South Africa, although some areas, particularly along the western coast, receive little rain throughout the year. The interior plateau has relatively lower rainfall, leading to the arid conditions of the Karoo region. Coastal areas, particularly in the southeastern part of the country, tend to receive more consistent rainfall, though the western coastline, influenced by the cold Benguela Current, is arid.

The country is susceptible to periodic droughts, particularly in the northeastern and central regions, which can impact agriculture and water resources. Flooding and severe storms can also occur during the summer rainy season, especially in low-lying areas.

Winds and Temperature

South Africa is subject to prevailing winds, including the warm, moisture-laden southeasterly trade winds and the cold westerlies. In the summer months, the southeasterly winds contribute to more humid conditions along the eastern coast, while the westerlies bring cooler, drier conditions to the western side of the country. Coastal regions also experience occasional cyclones, particularly in the eastern part of the country, although these storms are less frequent than in other parts of the Indian Ocean region.

People of South Africa

Population and Demographics

South Africa has a population of approximately 60 million people, making it the 24th most populous country in the world. The country is one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse in the world, with a complex history of migration, colonization, and cultural blending. The population is made up of four main racial groups: Black Africans (approximately 80% of the population), Whites (approximately 8%), Coloureds (mixed-race individuals, about 9%), and Indians/Asians (about 3%).

The Black African population is the largest and most diverse in terms of ethnic groups, with the Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, and Tswana being some of the largest groups. There are also smaller ethnic groups such as the Swazi, Venda, and Ndebele. The country has a high level of urbanization, with approximately two-thirds of the population living in urban areas, particularly in major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Despite urbanization, many South Africans still live in rural areas, especially in the northern provinces.

Language and Religion

South Africa is a multilingual country with 11 official languages: Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English, Tswana, Sotho, Swazi, Venda, Ndebele, Tsonga, and Northern Sotho. English, while widely spoken and used in government and business, is the least spoken first language. Afrikaans, a language derived from Dutch and spoken by many White South Africans, also holds significant importance, particularly in the western and northern parts of the country. South Africa’s linguistic diversity is a reflection of its complex cultural heritage, and many South Africans are bilingual or multilingual.

The dominant religion in South Africa is Christianity, with a significant portion of the population adhering to Protestant denominations, such as Anglicanism, Pentecostalism, and the Dutch Reformed Church. The Roman Catholic Church also has a large following. Other religions practiced in the country include Islam, Hinduism, and traditional African religions. South Africa is known for its religious diversity and tolerance, with various religious communities coexisting peacefully.

Education and Health

Education in South Africa is free and compulsory for children aged 7 to 15. However, access to quality education varies significantly between urban and rural areas, with schools in rural regions often lacking resources and infrastructure. The education system is structured in three phases: the Foundation Phase (Grade R-3), the Intermediate Phase (Grade 4-6), and the Senior Phase (Grade 7-9). Higher education is provided by a number of universities, with the University of Cape Town, University of the Witwatersrand, and Stellenbosch University being some of the most prominent institutions. However, South Africa’s education system faces challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, a lack of trained teachers, and disparities in the quality of education between different socioeconomic groups.

South Africa’s healthcare system consists of both public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is underfunded and often overburdened, especially in rural areas, with long waiting times and limited access to healthcare facilities. However, South Africa is home to some of the best private healthcare institutions on the African continent, attracting medical tourists from across the region. The government has invested in programs aimed at improving healthcare access and addressing issues such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and maternal health.

Economy of South Africa

Key Industries

South Africa has one of the most industrialized economies in Africa, with key industries including mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The country is a leading producer of minerals, including gold, platinum, diamonds, and coal, making mining one of the most important sectors in the economy. South Africa has the world’s largest platinum reserves and is a significant producer of gold and diamonds. The mining sector has historically been a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy, although its relative contribution to GDP has declined in recent years.

Manufacturing is another crucial sector, with industries such as automotive production, steel manufacturing, and chemicals being key contributors to the economy. South Africa is a major exporter of vehicles, and companies like BMW, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz have significant production plants in the country. Agriculture remains an important sector, with South Africa being a leading producer of fruits, wine, maize, and sugar.

The services sector is growing rapidly, driven by financial services, telecommunications, retail, and tourism. South Africa’s financial sector is among the most developed in Africa, with Johannesburg being a major financial hub. The tourism industry is also a significant contributor to the economy, thanks to the country’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historical sites.

Economic Challenges

South Africa faces several economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, poverty, and income inequality. The country has one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, particularly among young people and in rural areas. This, along with widespread poverty and a high level of inequality, remains a significant issue despite the country’s economic growth in certain sectors.

The country’s reliance on mining and other resource-driven industries makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. In recent years, South Africa has also faced slow economic growth, which has contributed to social and political unrest. The government has made efforts to diversify the economy by investing in infrastructure, education, and renewable energy, but progress has been slow.

Corruption and poor governance have also hindered economic development. While the country has made significant strides since the end of apartheid, issues such as state capture, political corruption, and inefficiency in the public sector have undermined efforts to address the country’s socio-economic challenges.

Government of South Africa

Political System

South Africa is a constitutional democracy with a multi-party system. The country’s political system is based on the separation of powers between the executive, legislature, and judiciary. The President of South Africa is both the head of state and head of government and is elected by the National Assembly, which is the lower house of Parliament. The President appoints the Cabinet, which is responsible for overseeing government departments.

The Parliament of South Africa is bicameral, consisting of the National Assembly (lower house) and the National Council of Provinces (upper house). The National Assembly has 400 members who are elected through proportional representation for five-year terms. The National Council of Provinces has 90 members who represent the provinces in the legislative process.

South Africa is divided into nine provinces, each with its own provincial government. These provinces have limited powers over local matters, with the central government in Pretoria holding significant influence over national policy and governance.

Legal System

South Africa’s legal system is based on a combination of Roman-Dutch law, English common law, and customary law. The judiciary is independent, with the Constitutional Court serving as the highest court in the land, responsible for interpreting the Constitution and overseeing the protection of human rights.

The legal system in South Africa has undergone significant reform since the end of apartheid, with the government working to ensure equal access to justice for all citizens. However, the system faces challenges, including backlogs in the courts, delays in legal proceedings, and inequality in the availability of legal services, particularly in rural areas.

Culture of South Africa

Arts and Music

South Africa’s cultural scene is diverse and dynamic, influenced by the country’s history, ethnic groups, and artistic traditions. The country is known for its contributions to music, particularly jazz, rock, and pop. South African musicians like Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, and Johnny Clegg have gained international recognition for their influence on global music. Traditional music also plays a significant role, with many different styles reflecting the various cultures and languages found across the country.

The visual arts in South Africa have flourished, with notable artists like William Kentridge and Esther Mahlangu receiving international acclaim. The country’s art scene is characterized by both traditional crafts, such as beadwork and pottery, and modern art that engages with contemporary political and social issues.

Festivals and Traditions

South Africa celebrates a variety of cultural festivals that reflect its diverse population. The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is one of the largest music festivals on the African continent, while the Durban International Film Festival and National Arts Festival in Grahamstown showcase the country’s vibrant arts scene. Additionally, traditional ceremonies, such as weddings, initiations, and harvest festivals, are important cultural markers for different ethnic communities.

Cuisine

South African cuisine is a rich mix of indigenous African, Dutch, British, Indian, and Malaysian influences. Some of the country’s most famous dishes include bobotie, a spiced minced meat dish with egg custard, and braai, a style of cooking meat over an open flame that is central to South African social life. Biltong, dried cured meat, is a popular snack, and samp (a dish made from maize) is another traditional food.

South African cuisine varies by region, with each cultural group contributing its own flavors and ingredients to the country’s culinary traditions. The country is also known for its wine production, with the Western Cape region being one of the world’s renowned wine-growing areas.