Papua New Guinea's population surpasses 10 million, census data reveals
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The 2024 Population Census final figures show PNG’s population has reached 10,185,363. RNZ
This is about a 40% increase from the previous census in 2011, when the population was 7,275,324. RNZ
The average annual growth rate since the 2011 census is around 2.6%, though official commentary notes that rate may be inflated due to differences in counting and coverage. RNZ
There are more males than females: 5,336,546 males compared with 4,848,546 females, roughly 110 males for every 100 females. RNZ
The average household size is about five people. RNZ
Among PNG’s 22 provinces, Morobe Province has the highest population (just under 1 million), followed by Eastern Highlands Province with around 800,072 people. RNZ
In terms of regions: the Highlands region holds the largest share (35.7%), followed by the Momase region (27%), then the Southern and Islands regions. RNZ
The census process itself faced significant delays and logistical issues — the enumeration began 16 June 2024 and concluded in late October, well past the original deadline. RNZ
Some experts have expressed doubts about the coverage and reliability of the 2024 Census, noting it included only six questions and may not meet UN benchmarks for data quality. RNZ
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