In Africa, GDP per capita varies significantly across countries due to a range of factors including economic structures, political stability, natural resources, and historical context.
The poorest countries by GDP per capita are typically those with the lowest economic output per person in their population.
Although GDP per capita has limitations as the sole measure of a nation’s poverty level, a low GDP per capita typically suggests that the country’s economic output is relatively small compared to its population size, which often correlates with higher levels of poverty.
The poorest countries, as measured by GDP per capita, tend to be located in regions with ongoing conflicts, historical disadvantages, or limited access to natural resources.
These countries often rely on foreign aid, remittances, or basic industries like agriculture.
Instability, Africa’s major challenge
Africa’s story is bittersweet, as the continent, rich in natural resources, is home to some of the poorest nations on Earth.
Political instability is a major factor contributing to low GDP per capita in many African countries.
Civil wars, military coups, authoritarian regimes, and political unrest can severely damage economies by disrupting economic activities, destroying infrastructure, and deterring both local and foreign investment.
Many African countries have experienced political instability, including military coups, civil wars, and authoritarian regimes. These conflicts disrupt economic activities, damage infrastructure, displace populations, and deter foreign investment.
The negative impacts on economic development are widespread and multifaceted.
According to the Africa Center, the forcibly displaced population in Africa has doubled since 2018. As of 2024, 1.9 million new internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been reported, with Africa now hosting more than 48% of the world’s IDPs.
Additionally, an estimated 163 million Africans are facing acute food insecurity, nearly triple the number from five years ago, underscoring the rapid escalation of Africa’s food crisis.
These factors further exacerbate the dire situation in Africa, creating a critical need for sustainable solutions to address these challenges.
According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the African countries with the lowest GDP per capita in 2025 are among the most economically challenged on the continent and include;
| Rank | Country | GDP Per Capita ($) |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
South Sudan |
960.24 |
|
2 |
Burundi |
1,010.00 |
|
3 |
Central African Republic |
1,310.00 |
|
4 |
Malawi |
1,760.00 |
|
5 |
Mozambique |
1,790.00 |
|
6 |
Somalia |
1,900.00 |
|
7 |
Congo |
1,900.00 |
|
8 |
Liberia |
2,000.00 |
|
9 |
Madagascar |
2,060.00 |
|
10 |
Niger |
2,080.00 |
South Sudan leads with $960.24, a result of ongoing conflict and instability.
Burundi follows at $1,010.00, facing political unrest and economic challenges despite its agricultural potential.
The Central African Republic ranks third with $1,310.00, similarly affected by instability and insufficient infrastructure.
These figures underline the significant barriers to economic growth and development in these nations
