Namibia’s population rose to 3.1 m people in 2025.

Neither way is good in itself. A larger population brings more workers and customers, and it also raises demand for schools, housing, water and jobs. A smaller one eases that demand and shrinks the home market, so the direction carries no verdict on its own. The latest figure is 3.1 million in Jan 2025, up from 3 million a year earlier. That is a rise of 0.06 million people, or 2.1%. Since 2016 the population has ranged from a low of 2.4 million in Jan 2016 to a high of 3.1 million, and the latest reading sits at the top of that range.

Why it matters. Growth of 2.1% a year means Namibia needs more classrooms, homes and jobs each year just to keep conditions where they are. Firms gain a slightly bigger pool of workers and shoppers. The state has to spread its budget for health, education and infrastructure across 3.1 million people.