According to the 2009 World Population Data Sheet and summary - a report published by the Population Reference Bureau - the African continent has the highest birth rate in the world. Africa is now home to over one billion people and that number is expected to double by 2050.

The countries of sub-Saharan Africa have the highest birth rate of all, with the average woman giving birth to at least five children. The average in Niger is over seven children, five above the global average.

The report also reveals that Africa has the youngest population in the world in relative terms. The researchers have expressed concern that this could place a heavy burden on healthcare, housing and employment in the near future.

The World Population Data Sheet provides up-to-date demographic, health and environment data for all the countries and major regions of the world. It also examines the contrasts between rich and poor nations. According to its forecast, the world population is growing at an unprecedented rate and is expected to reach seven billion in 2011.