The population density was calculated by using 1994 census figures for each magisterial district, and dividing the value by the area, measured in square kilometers, of that particular district. Population density is therefore expressed as the average number of people per square kilometer, for any particular magisterial district.

 

Population pressure on surface water resources The effect of the pre-1994 political dispensation, where large numbers of people were concentrated in certain areas of the country, is evident in the landscape of current-day South Africa. The high population densities have had a dramatic effect on the natural resources of the area. In reality the crisis areas are those with a low surface production and a high population density. The Mzimvubu River catchment, which is regarded as the prime underutilised surface water resource of South Africa, is already under significant population pressure at present, and this will have far-reaching effects on future plans to develop and exploit this resource.