10 African Countries Still Battling the Most Poverty

In 2025, millions of Africans are still navigating life under intense economic pressure. According to the latest data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), several African countries continue to rank among the lowest in the world in terms of GDP per capita (measured by purchasing power parity). 

But behind the numbers are complex stories of conflict, climate change, political instability, and decades of systemic challenges.

While some African nations are making strides in sectors like trade, digital innovation, and democratic governance, for others, sustainable economic growth remains out of reach. 

Poor infrastructure, fragile institutions, and overreliance on a few key industries often make these countries especially vulnerable to external shocks. Here’s a look at some of the top 10 African countries still facing the harshest economic conditions in 2025 and what’s standing in their way.

South Sudan – GDP-PPP per capita: $960.24Africa’s youngest country is also its most economically fragile. Still recovering from years of civil war, South Sudan struggles with deep-rooted political tensions, limited economic diversification, and a heavy dependence on oil exports. Instability keeps potential investors at bay, while basic services remain out of reach for many citizens.

Burundi – GDP-PPP per capita: $1,009Burundi’s economy is largely agrarian, with most of its people relying on small-scale farming to survive. But limited industrial development, weak infrastructure, and challenges in cross-border trade continue to slow down economic growth. While peace has returned to some parts of the country, poverty remains widespread.

Central African Republic (CAR) – GDP-PPP per capita: $1,314The Central African Republic has been in a state of conflict for years. With weak governance structures and persistent violence, the country finds it difficult to attract long-term investment or build stable institutions. As a result, many citizens live with food insecurity and have little access to healthcare and education.

Malawi – GDP-PPP per capita: $1,765Malawi’s economy depends heavily on agriculture, but unpredictable weather patterns and environmental challenges make growth difficult. With limited industrial activity and few job opportunities outside of farming, many households continue to live in poverty, struggling to meet daily needs.

Mozambique – GDP-PPP per capita: $1,787Mozambique is rich in resources, but recurring natural disasters and governance issues hinder progress. Corruption, conflict in northern regions, and challenges in resource management make economic stability hard to achieve. Without major reforms, long-term prosperity remains uncertain.

Somalia – GDP-PPP per capita: $1,900Somalia has been dealing with instability for decades. Ongoing insecurity, weak state institutions, and a lack of infrastructure mean the country struggles to support economic development. International aid remains a lifeline for many, but self-sustaining industries have yet to take root.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – GDP-PPP per capita: $1,908Despite sitting on vast mineral wealth, the DRC remains one of Africa’s poorest nations. A mix of conflict, corruption, and underdeveloped infrastructure continues to hold the country back. The irony is striking: immense natural resources above ground, but extreme poverty on the ground.

Liberia – GDP-PPP per capita: $2,003Years after civil war and the Ebola crisis, Liberia is still rebuilding. While there have been efforts to improve governance and attract investment, many Liberians still face unemployment, limited access to healthcare, and rising living costs. The road to recovery remains long and uneven.

Madagascar – GDP-PPP per capita: $2,062Madagascar’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, which is highly vulnerable to climate change. Cyclones, droughts, and poor infrastructure all contribute to economic fragility. Political instability has also played a role in stalling development efforts, making poverty reduction a tough challenge.

Niger – GDP-PPP per capita: $2,084With one of the fastest-growing populations in the world, Niger faces immense pressure on its already limited resources. Low industrial development, recurring droughts, and fragile public services make it difficult for the country to meet basic needs, let alone drive long-term growth.

What can be done?Experts say that to shift the narrative, investment in manufacturing, education, and healthcare is key. Local governments, with support from global partners, must focus on building stronger institutions, improving infrastructure, and expanding access to essential services. 

The road ahead may be steep, but with the right mix of vision, policy, and action, transformation is still possible.