The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected a steady yet cautious global economic growth of 3.2% for 2024 and 2025. This forecast shows the resilience and gradual recovery of economies worldwide following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Africa, a continent rich in natural resources and cultural diversity, continues to face significant economic disparities. While some nations boast rapid innovation and growth, others struggle with persistent challenges that are reflected in their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita—a key indicator of a country’s economic output per person.
Political instability, inadequate infrastructure, heavy reliance on subsistence agriculture, and mounting external debt have hindered economic progress in several African nations. Despite international support and efforts at economic reform, these issues continue to suppress growth, making it crucial to spotlight the nations with the lowest GDP per capita in 2025.
This article explores the economic realities of the 10 poorest countries in Africa by GDP per capita, highlighting the challenges they face and identifying potential pathways for improvement.
TLDR: Key takeaways from this article
- GDP per capita reflects a country’s economic output relative to its population size and overall economic health.
- Common barriers to economic growth include political instability, poor infrastructure, and overreliance on agriculture.
- The 10 poorest African nations face intertwined challenges, such as external debt, conflict, and limited industrialization.
- Despite these hurdles, there are opportunities in areas like natural resource management, education, and regional trade.
- Understanding these disparities can shape effective policymaking and international development strategies.
10 poorest countries in Africa by GDP per capita
Below are the poorest African countries based on the current GDP per capita.
- Burundi
- Central African Republic
- Sierra Leone
- Madagascar
- Mozambique
- Niger
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- South Sudan
- Malawi
- Somalia
1. Burundi
Burundi, a small landlocked nation in East Africa, has a GDP per capita of just $231, making it the poorest country on the continent. Over 80% of its population relies on subsistence farming, with limited access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Political instability, ethnic tensions, and civil conflicts have deeply affected the nation, displacing many and stalling economic progress.
Despite these ongoing struggles, Burundi holds some economic promise. The coffee and tea sectors, which are among its primary exports, present potential opportunities for growth and development. However, addressing the root causes of poverty will require sustained, long-term efforts focused on stability, infrastructure development, and human capital investment.
Category | Details |
Official name | Republic of Burundi |
Capital | Gitega |
Area | 25,688 sq km |
Population | 14.04 million |
Population density | 547 people/sq km |
Official languages | Kirundi, French |
Currency | Burundian Franc (BIF) |
GDP (Nominal) | $3.07 billion |
GDP per capita | $231 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.426 |
Average life expectancy (male & female) | 63.8 years |
Urban population | 14.5 % of the population |
Major industries | Agriculture, Mining |
Major exports | Coffee, Tea |
Major import partners | China, Tanzania |
2. Central African Republic (CAR)
Despite being rich in valuable natural resources such as diamonds and gold, the Central African Republic (CAR) remains one of the world’s least developed nations. This landlocked country has a GDP per capita of just $467, underscoring the deep economic struggles faced by its population. Most CAR’s citizens rely on agriculture for their livelihoods, yet inadequate infrastructure and poor governance severely hinder productivity and economic growth.
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Political instability and ongoing armed conflicts have plunged the nation into a dire humanitarian crisis. Large areas of the country are controlled by armed groups, making it nearly impossible to deliver essential aid and services to those in need. Millions of people have been displaced, while communities struggle to rebuild amidst violence and uncertainty.
Local communities and grassroots initiatives are making strides in fostering peace and encouraging development. Stabilizing the political environment and attracting foreign investment could unlock the country’s potential, particularly in its untapped mining and agricultural sectors.
Category | Details |
Official name | Central African Republic |
Capital | Bangui |
Area | 622,984 sq km |
Population | 5.4 million |
Population density | 9 people/sq km |
Official languages | French, Sango |
Currency | CFA Franc (XAF) |
GDP (Nominal) | $2.38 billion |
GDP per capita | $467 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.367 |
Average life expectancy (males & females) | 57.67 years |
Urban population | 44.4% of the population |
Major industries | Mining, Agriculture |
Major exports | Diamonds, Timber |
Major import partners | France, China |
3. Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone, a nation rich in diamonds, continues battling severe economic challenges. With a GDP per capita of just $532, the country’s reliance on mining, particularly diamonds, has not translated into widespread economic development. Corruption, weak governance, and resource mismanagement have undermined the potential benefits of its natural wealth, leaving much of the population in poverty.
The scars of the brutal civil war (1991–2002) still linger, as it destroyed vital infrastructure and disrupted economic activities for over a decade. Recovery has been slow, further complicated by the devastating 2014–2016 Ebola outbreak, which strained an already fragile healthcare system. Agriculture, the primary source of livelihood for most citizens, remains underdeveloped, relying on outdated farming methods and receiving little investment.
That said, Sierra Leone’s economic future is not without hope. Investing in infrastructure, modernizing agricultural practices, and tackling corruption could unlock significant growth. Strengthened governance and the equitable distribution of resources are essential to ensuring that the country’s wealth benefits all its citizens.
Category | Details |
Official name | Republic of Sierra Leone |
Capital | Freetown |
Area | 72,180 sq km |
Population | 8.72 million |
Population density | 120 people/sq km |
Official languages | English |
Currency | Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL) |
GDP (Nominal) | $3.97 billion |
GDP per capita | $480 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.452 (Low) |
Average life expectancy (males & females) | 61.96 years |
Urban population | 45.1% of the population |
Major industries | Mining, agriculture, fisheries |
Major exports | Diamonds, bauxite, cocoa |
Major import partners | China, UK, Netherlands |
4. Madagascar
Madagascar is an island nation renowned for its unique biodiversity. The country faces major economic challenges with a GDP per capita of $491. Its reliance on agriculture, especially vanilla exports, makes it highly vulnerable to external shocks and natural disasters. Cyclones and droughts frequently disrupt food production and livelihoods, exacerbating poverty and food insecurity across rural communities.
Political instability has also hampered Madagascar’s development, creating an environment of uncertainty that discourages investment and limits progress. Infrastructure deficits further isolate the nation, reducing trade opportunities and impeding the growth of critical sectors such as manufacturing and transportation.
Despite these hurdles, Madagascar holds untapped potential for economic growth. Its unparalleled natural beauty and cultural heritage position it as a prime destination for eco-tourism, which, if sustainably managed, could drive revenue and support conservation efforts.
Category | Details |
Official name | Republic of Madagascar |
Capital | Antananarivo |
Area | 581,795 km² |
Population | 32.32 million |
Population density | 55 people/km² |
Official languages | Malagasy, French |
Currency | Malagasy Ariary (MGA) |
GDP (Nominal) | $14.95 billion |
GDP per capita | $491 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.528 (Low) |
Average life expectancy (males & females) | 63.84 years |
Urban population | 39.6% of the population |
Major industries | Agriculture, mining, textiles |
Major exports | Vanilla, cloves, coffee, seafood |
Major import partners | China, France, India |
5. Mozambique
Mozambique, with a GDP per capita of $547, presents a paradox of immense natural wealth yet persistent poverty. The country boasts significant reserves of natural gas, coal, and other resources, but political instability, mismanagement, and frequent natural disasters have stifled its economic progress.
Cyclones, floods, and droughts regularly devastate communities, destroying infrastructure, displacing families, and crippling agricultural production—the main livelihood for a large portion of the population. These recurring disasters not only cause immediate economic losses but also undermine long-term development efforts by redirecting resources toward recovery rather than growth.
Additionally, conflict in northern regions, particularly involving armed insurgent groups, has disrupted lives and strained government resources. The violence has displaced hundreds of thousands, leaving many without access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
Its natural gas sector holds the potential for significant revenue generation if managed effectively. Improving disaster preparedness and investing in resilient infrastructure is critical to mitigating the impacts of climate-related shocks.
Category | Details |
Official name | Republic of Mozambique |
Capital | Maputo |
Area | 786,380 Km² |
Population | 35.1 million |
Population density | 44 people/Km² |
Official languages | Portuguese (official), various Bantu languages |
Currency | Mozambican Metical (MZN) |
GDP (Nominal) | $17.85 billion |
GDP per capita | $547 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.446 (Low) |
Average life expectancy (males & females) | 63.8 years |
Urban population | 41.0% of the population |
Major industries | Agriculture, Mining (coal, gas), Tourism, Manufacturing |
Major exports | Natural gas, aluminum, coal, agricultural products (sugar, cashews, cotton) |
Major import partners | South Africa, China, India, Portugal |
6. Niger
Niger faces severe economic challenges, including desertification and limited industrialization. With most of its population relying on subsistence farming, the country’s economy is highly vulnerable to climate change.
While it’s one of the world’s largest producers of uranium, this wealth has not translated into significant economic advancement. Additionally, high fertility rates limit resources and complicate ways to improve living conditions.
Investments in renewable energy and strengthening regional trade partnerships are key opportunities for economic recovery.
Category | Details |
Official name | Republic of Niger |
Capital | Niamey |
Area | 1,266,700 sq km |
Population | 27.44 million |
Population density | 21 people/sq km |
Official languages | French |
Currency | CFA Franc (XOF) |
GDP (Nominal) | $13.97 billion |
GDP per capita | $552 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.394 |
Average life expectancy (males & females) | 61.43 years |
Urban population | 17.9% of the population |
Major industries | Agriculture, mining (uranium), livestock |
Major exports | Uranium, livestock, onions |
Major import partners | France, Nigeria, China |
7. Democratic Republic of Congo
As one of the most resource-rich countries in the world, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is home to vast reserves of cobalt, copper, gold, and diamonds. However, political instability, corruption, and ongoing conflict have stymied its economic progress and left the majority of its population in poverty.
The exploitation of mineral resources, often controlled by armed groups, has fueled violence and perpetuated human rights abuses, displacing millions and destabilizing entire regions. Infrastructure is underdeveloped, with limited access to education, healthcare, and basic services, further exacerbating poverty.
To unlock its economic potential, the DRC must address systemic corruption and implement transparent governance practices. Fair resource management coupled with investment in infrastructure and social services could significantly improve living standards.
Category | Details |
Official name | Democratic Republic of Congo |
Capital | Kishasha |
Area | 2,267,050 sq km |
Population | 110.92 million |
Population density | 48 people/sq km |
Official languages | French (official), Lingala, Kikongo, Swahili, Tshiluba |
Currency | Congolese Franc (CDF) |
GDP (Nominal) | $58.07 billion |
GDP per capita | $567 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.479 |
Averaged life expectancy (males & females) | 62.07 years |
Urban population | 44.5% of the population |
Major industries | Mining (cobalt, copper, diamonds, gold), agriculture, forestry, construction |
Major exports | Cobalt, copper, diamonds, gold, crude oil, wood products |
Major import partners | China, South Africa, Belgium, Zambia, United Arab Emirates |
8. South Sudan
With a GDP per capita of $581, South Sudan remains one of Africa's poorest nations. Years of civil war have left the nation in a state of severe humanitarian crisis, marked by widespread displacement and acute food insecurity. Millions of South Sudanese live in makeshift shelters or refugee camps, heavily reliant on international aid for their daily survival.
Agriculture, the primary source of livelihood for many, has been disrupted by conflict, leading to chronic shortages and high malnutrition rates. Despite having significant oil reserves, the country’s potential remains largely untapped due to instability and insufficient infrastructure.
Rebuilding efforts are underway, with a focus on infrastructure development, peacebuilding, and economic recovery. Local communities and international organizations are striving to restore basic services, support displaced populations, and create growth opportunities.
Category | Details |
Official name | Republic of South Sudan |
Capital | Juba |
Area | 610,952 sq km |
Population | 12.06 million |
Population density | 20 people/sq km |
Official languages | English |
Currency | South Sudanese Pound (SSP) |
GDP (Nominal) | $7.0 billion |
GDP per capita | $581 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.385 (Very Low) |
Average life expectancy (males & females) | 57.74 years |
Urban population | 27.1% of the population |
Major industries | Oil, agriculture, construction |
Major exports | Crude oil |
Major import partners | Kenya, Uganda, China |
9. Somalia
Somalia has endured decades of civil conflict, political instability, and weak governance, all of which have significantly hindered its economic development. The country's economy heavily relies on livestock and informal trade, which account for a large portion of its GDP. However, years of instability have left Somalia with limited infrastructure, inadequate social services, and widespread poverty.
Despite these challenges, Somalia holds untapped economic potential. Its long coastline, one of the longest in Africa, provides opportunities for a thriving fishing industry. Additionally, the country is rich in natural resources, including oil and minerals, which could serve as significant economic drivers if stability and governance improve.
Peacebuilding efforts, alongside investment in infrastructure and formal economic sectors, are essential for Somalia’s recovery. Strengthening institutions, combating corruption, and improving security will be key to unlocking sustainable growth and reducing the nation’s dependence on foreign aid.
Category | Details |
Official name | Federal Republic of Somalia |
Capital | Mogadishu |
Area | 627,340 sq km |
Population | 19.31 million |
Population density | 30 people/sq km |
Official languages | Somali, Arabic |
Currency | Somali Shilling (SOS) |
GDP (Nominal) | $11.68 billion |
GDP per capita | $614 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.285 |
Average life expectancy (males & females) | 58.97 years |
Urban population | 46.3% of the population |
Major Industries | Livestock, Fishing |
Major exports | Bananas, Livestock |
Major import partners | UAE, China |
10. Malawi
Formerly known as Nyasaland, Malawi, a landlocked country in southeastern Africa, struggles with population pressure and dependence on rain-fed agriculture. As one of the world's least-developed economies, it’s vulnerable to climate shocks that disrupt its agricultural output. The government aims to diversify agricultural activities and promote small-scale industries to drive economic growth.
Malawi has made strides in improving access to education and healthcare. Community-based initiatives and international partnerships have helped to build resilience and improve living conditions.
Category | Details |
Official name | Republic of Malawi |
Capital | Lilongwe |
Area | 94,280 sq km |
Population | 21.92 million |
Population density | 230 people/sq km |
Official languages | English, Chichewa |
Currency | Malawian Kwacha (MWK) |
GDP (Nominal) | $13.16 billion |
GDP per capita | $640 |
Human Development Index (HDI) | 0.483 (Low) |
Life expectancy (males & females) | years |
Urban population | 19.5% of the population |
Major industries | Agriculture, fishing, and forestry |
Major exports | Tobacco, tea, sugar, coffee |
Major import partners | South Africa, China, India |
Summary of the 10 poorest countries in Africa
Below is a detailed breakdown of the poorest countries in the world.
Country | GDP per capita | Key challenges | Opportunities for growth |
Burundi | $231 | Political instability, subsistence farming, lack of infrastructure | Regional trade, agricultural modernization |
Central African Republic (CAR) | $467 | Political conflict, poor infrastructure, over-reliance on agriculture | Mining, regional cooperation |
Sierra Leone | $480 | Over-reliance on mining, corruption | Infrastructure projects, governance reforms |
Madagascar | $491 | Isolation, poor transportation networks | Eco-tourism, agricultural exports |
Mozambique | $547 | Natural disasters, external debt, limited industrial base | Natural gas exploration |
Niger | $552 | Desertification, low industrial activity | Renewable energy, regional partnerships |
DR Congo | $567 | Political instability, corruption, mineral resource exploitation | Improving governance, resource management |
South Sudan | $581 | Ongoing conflict, oil dependency | Oil sector reforms, peacebuilding |
Somalia | $614 | Conflict, limited central governance, famine | Stabilization efforts, diaspora investments |
Malawi | $640 | Population pressure, reliance on rain-fed agriculture | Diversifying agriculture |
Understanding GDP and economic performance in Africa
What is GDP?
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) represents the total monetary value of all goods and services produced within a country's borders during a specific period. It is a critical measure of economic performance, offering insights into a nation's development and living standards. A low GDP often reflects economic challenges such as instability, poor infrastructure, and underdeveloped industries.
GDP vs. GDP per capita
While GDP measures a country’s overall economic output, GDP per capita adjusts this figure relative to the population size, providing a clearer picture of individual prosperity and productivity.
For example:
- GDP reflects the total market value of goods and services produced in a country, offering insights into overall economic activity.
- GDP per capita divides GDP by the population, helping to assess living standards and the economic contribution per person.
Economists and policymakers use these metrics for various purposes:
- Comparing domestic productivity to that of other nations.
- Shaping fiscal and monetary policies.
- Gauging economic health through growth trends, such as quarterly or annual GDP reports.
Implications of GDP per capita
GDP per capita is particularly relevant in understanding how population size impacts economic growth.
A rising GDP per capita may indicate:
- Increased productivity: Technological advancements that improve efficiency can drive economic growth without population changes.
- Economic resilience: Stable or declining populations combined with higher GDP figures suggest innovation and robust industries. Check out the 10 richest countries in Africa.
For African countries, GDP per capita provides a vital lens for evaluating economic disparities. It highlights how limited industrialization, political instability, or technological gaps can restrain growth, even in resource-rich nations. Conversely, it also reveals opportunities for improvement through strategic investments in technology, infrastructure, and education.
Other measures of wealth in nations
Besides GDP and GDP per capita, here are two more economic indicators used as measures of a nation’s overall financial health and living standards:
1. Gross National Income (GNI)
GNI builds on GDP by adding income from foreign investments, such as remittances and overseas business profits. This measure provides a clearer view of the money flowing into a country and its citizens' overall earnings.
2. Purchasing Power Parity (PPP)
PPP adjusts GDP to account for differences in living costs and currency values between countries. By comparing the price of a standard basket of goods and services, PPP helps assess citizens' purchasing power in real terms.
These economic indicators help provide context for comparing nations’ performance and highlight the disparities in Africa's wealth distribution.
Factors affecting GDP in African countries
The following interrelated factors contribute to the persistently low GDP in many African nations:
1. Political instability and conflict
Prolonged civil wars, political unrest, and regional conflicts devastate economies by displacing millions, destroying infrastructure, and halting business activities. These regions often find it nearly impossible to recover as violence continues to disrupt rebuilding efforts, making economic stability a distant goal.
The effects of conflict go beyond the immediate destruction. They fracture communities, displace families, and leave behind deep psychological scars that hinder social cohesion. Rebuilding efforts demand vast resources and international assistance, often out of reach for the poorest nations.
2. Economic instability
Many African countries struggle with fragile economies marked by high inflation, low industrial growth, and fluctuating market conditions. Even small disturbances can cause disproportionate damage, leaving millions without access to essential services. This instability perpetuates poverty, creating a vicious cycle that can only be broken by substantial reforms in economic structure and governance.
3. Poor infrastructure
The lack of critical infrastructure, such as reliable roads, consistent electricity, and safe water supplies, acts as a major barrier to economic development. Without these foundational systems, businesses struggle to grow, and communities are isolated from economic opportunities.
4. Poor governance and corruption
Corruption and ineffective governance divert resources away from essential development projects. Mismanagement of funds intended for healthcare, education, and infrastructure leaves populations underserved, while poor governance erodes public trust and weakens institutions. These conditions make it challenging to implement policies that foster sustainable growth.
5. Climate change and environmental vulnerabilities
Droughts, floods, and other climate-related disasters disproportionately affect African countries, particularly those heavily reliant on agriculture. These events destroy crops, displace families, and contribute to food insecurity, leaving communities even more vulnerable. Climate change also exacerbates poverty by creating unpredictable economic conditions for already fragile systems.
6. External debt burden
Many African countries face crippling levels of external debt, which limits their ability to invest in crucial sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. A significant portion of national income goes toward repaying these debts, which severely restricts the funds available for domestic development.
7. Limited access to education
Education is fundamental to breaking the poverty cycle, yet many African nations struggle to provide basic schooling. Without education, individuals are ill-equipped for higher-paying jobs, and communities remain trapped in generational poverty. This lack of opportunity stifles growth, as young people are denied the tools they need to succeed in a modern economy.
8. Public health challenges
Health crises like malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis place enormous strain on African economies by reducing workforce productivity and increasing healthcare costs. Many countries struggle to provide adequate healthcare services, leaving large portions of the population without access to treatment. Poor health also reduces the labor force, further exacerbating poverty and hindering economic growth.
Common challenges among Africa’s poorest countries
1. Conflict
Political unrest remains a significant barrier to economic growth in many African countries. Civil wars and unstable governments disrupt trade, deter foreign investment, and lead to the displacement of populations. Countries like Somalia and South Sudan exemplify how conflict stifles development.
2. Limited infrastructure
Underdeveloped infrastructure, such as poor roads, unreliable electricity, and inadequate water supply, makes it difficult to conduct business efficiently. For example, in the Central African Republic, limited transportation networks restrict access to markets and resources.
3. Overdependence on agriculture
Many of these nations rely heavily on agriculture, often at a subsistence level. Vulnerability to droughts and market fluctuations can lead to significant economic downturns, as seen in Malawi and Niger.
FAQs about GDP and economic performance
What is GDP, and why is it important?
GDP (Gross Domestic Product) measures a nation's total economic output within a specified period, typically a year. It includes the value of all goods and services produced in a country. GDP is essential because it provides an overview of a country's economic health and growth trends, which helps policymakers, businesses, and investors make informed decisions.
How does GDP per capita differ from total GDP?
GDP per capita divides a country’s total GDP by population, providing a more accurate measure of the average economic output per person. It is often used to compare the standard of living between different countries or regions, while total GDP measures the overall economic size.
Why do some African countries have low GDP?
Several factors contribute to low GDP in African countries, including political instability, inadequate infrastructure, over-reliance on agriculture, external debt, and limited access to education and healthcare.
How can African countries improve their GDP?
Strategies to boost GDP, include investing in infrastructure, promoting industrialization, enhancing education systems, fostering trade partnerships, and improving governance.
Are there African countries with rapidly growing GDPs?
Yes, nations like Rwanda and Ethiopia have experienced significant economic growth due to political stability, investment in infrastructure, and diversified industries.
How do natural resources affect GDP?
Natural resources can significantly contribute to GDP, particularly in countries rich in minerals, oil, or agriculture. However, resource dependence can also lead to economic challenges, such as the "resource curse," where reliance on raw materials inhibits economic diversification and governance. Proper management and investment in resource-rich industries can help maximize the economic benefits of these resources.
What role does foreign investment play in improving GDP?
Foreign direct investment (FDI) brings capital, technology, and expertise into a country, which can stimulate economic growth. By attracting investment, countries can develop infrastructure, create jobs, and promote industrialization, all of which contribute to an increase in GDP.
Conclusion
Understanding the economic landscape of Africa
The 10 poorest countries in Africa by GDP per capita face unique challenges, ranging from political instability to inadequate infrastructure. However, they also have opportunities to harness natural resources, strengthen governance, and invest in human capital to improve their economic standing.
Opportunities for growth
By addressing key challenges and leveraging international partnerships, these nations can create pathways to sustainable development. Understanding the economic landscape of these countries is critical for formulating effective policies and fostering long-term growth.
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