Top 10 poorest countries in the world by GDP per capita [2024]

Economic Challenges and Resilience: A Closer Look at the Poorest Nations

South Sudan
With a GDP of $6.52 billion and a population of over 11 million, South Sudan remains the world’s poorest country. The nation, having only gained independence in 2011, is hindered by political instability, ongoing conflict, and a lack of infrastructure. Traditional agriculture dominates the economy, but violence and climate disruptions continue to impede growth and development.
Burundi
Burundi, with a GDP of $3.08 billion and a population of approximately 13.5 million, faces a severe economic crisis exacerbated by political instability and inadequate infrastructure. The majority of its population relies on subsistence farming, which is threatened by rapid population growth and food insecurity.
Central African Republic (CAR)
Despite its wealth in natural resources, the Central African Republic struggles with a GDP of $2.81 billion and a population of about 5.8 million. Political instability, armed conflicts, and a lack of infrastructure prevent the nation from capitalizing on its resource wealth, leaving many in poverty.
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
The DRC, with a GDP of $73.76 billion and a population exceeding 104 million, is rich in resources like cobalt and copper. Yet, widespread poverty persists due to ongoing conflict, malnutrition, and inadequate access to education and healthcare.
Mozambique
Mozambique, home to about 34.5 million people and a GDP of $22.98 billion, faces significant poverty despite its resource wealth. Natural disasters, disease, and insurgent attacks in resource-rich areas have hindered economic progress and exacerbated inequality.
Niger
With a GDP of $18.82 billion and a population of nearly 28 million, Niger’s economy is challenged by frequent droughts and a reliance on agriculture. The country’s large desert areas and growing population place additional strain on its economic resources.
Malawi
Malawi’s economy, with a GDP of $11.24 billion and a population of around 21.4 million, is heavily dependent on rain-fed agriculture. Climate change and fluctuating commodity prices pose ongoing risks, though efforts to diversify the economy are underway.
Liberia
Liberia’s GDP stands at $4.75 billion, with a population of about 5.5 million. The country struggles with the aftermath of civil conflicts and outbreaks like Ebola, which have left infrastructure and services severely compromised. Efforts by international organizations aim to improve the situation through sustainable development.
Madagascar
Madagascar, with a GDP of $16.47 billion and a population of 25.6 million, faces economic difficulties despite its political stability since 2014. Political instability and limited resource harnessing have impacted the country’s economic performance.

Yemen
Yemen, with a GDP of $16.94 billion and a population of over 35 million, has been devastated by years of civil war and economic collapse. The conflict has led to widespread humanitarian crises, including severe shortages of food, water, and medicine.

Rank	Country	GDP Per Capita	Continent	Currency and Value (USD)
#1	South Sudan	$455.16	Africa	South Sudanese Pound (SSP) – 1 USD = 600 SSP
#2	Burundi	$915.88	Africa	Burundian Franc (BIF) – 1 USD = 2,830 BIF
#3	Central African Republic	$1,200	Africa	Central African CFA Franc (XAF) – 1 USD = 620 XAF
#4	Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)	$1,550	Africa	Congolese Franc (CDF) – 1 USD = 2,050 CDF
#5	Mozambique	$1,650	Africa	Mozambican Metical (MZN) – 1 USD = 64 MZN
#6	Niger	$1,670	Africa	West African CFA Franc (XOF) – 1 USD = 620 XOF
#7	Malawi	$1,710	Africa	Malawian Kwacha (MWK) – 1 USD = 1,025 MWK
#8	Liberia	$1,880	Africa	Liberian Dollar (LRD) – 1 USD = 180 LRD
#9	Madagascar	$1,980	Africa	Malagasy Ariary (MGA) – 1 USD = 4,000 MGA
#10	Yemen	$2,000	Asia	Yemeni Rial (YER) – 1 USD = 250 YER