In 2024, African countries dominate the list of the world's poorest countries by GDP per capita, facing severe economic challenges.
1. South Sudan
South Sudan, independent since 2011, faces political instability, conflict, and poor infrastructure. With most of its 11 million people relying on traditional agriculture, frequent violence and extreme climate events disrupt farming, perpetuating poverty.
GDP: $25.83 billion
Population: 11,205,383
2. Burundi
Burundi struggles with political instability, conflicts, and poor infrastructure. Rapid population growth and reliance on subsistence agriculture lead to high food insecurity.
GDP: $3.06 billion
Population: 13,459,236
3. Central African Republic (CAR)
Despite wealth in gold, oil, uranium, and diamonds, CAR suffers from political instability and armed conflicts. The war in Ukraine has driven up prices for essential goods, worsening economic conditions.
GDP: $3 billion
Population: 5,849,358
4. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Abundant in natural resources, the DRC remains impoverished, with 62% of its population living on less than $2.15 a day. Malnutrition, limited access to education, healthcare, and high fertility rates contribute to widespread poverty.
GDP: $15.42 billion
Population: 104,354,615
5. Mozambique
Despite strong GDP growth, Mozambique struggles with natural disasters, disease, rapid population growth, and attacks from insurgent groups in the north.
GDP: $23.96 billion
Population: 34,497,736
6. Niger
Niger's economy, primarily agricultural, is hindered by frequent droughts and desertification, with 80% of its territory covered by the Sahara Desert.
GDP: $19.54 billion
Population: 27,844,740
7. Malawi
Heavily reliant on rain-fed agriculture, Malawi faces climate change challenges. The government is working towards economic diversification and improving education and healthcare.
GDP: $11.04 billion
Population: 21,390,465
8. Liberia
Liberia's history of civil wars and Ebola outbreaks drives its poverty. Forced migration disrupts agriculture, causing food insecurity.
GDP: $4.59 billion
Population: 5,492,486
9. Madagascar
Madagascar's political crises hinder resource utilization. Despite this, mining and tourism are key GDP contributors.
GDP: $16.77 billion
Population: 25.6 million
10. Yemen
Years of civil war have devastated Yemen’s economy, displacing millions and crippling infrastructure, leading to widespread hunger and malnutrition.
GDP: $16.94 billion
Population: 35.08 million