SOUTH AFRICA’S population has grown by 2,47 million since October 1996, according to the latest estimate of Statistics SA. The current total stands at 43,05 million, up from 40,58 million about three years ago, according to a statement released in Pretoria. Stats SA estimates that the economically active population rose from 14,9 million to 15,8 million over the same period. The figures exclude deaths because of HIV/Aids.