It is important to note that defining a country as “poor” can be complex and can depend on various factors, including economic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), poverty rates, and levels of development. Here are the top 10 poorest countries in the world, based on the World Bank’s 2021 estimates of Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, and some of the reasons why they are considered to be poor:
- Burundi – With a GNI per capita of just $230, Burundi is one of the poorest countries in the world. It is also one of the most densely populated countries in Africa, and faces significant challenges in terms of political instability, poverty, and health issues.
- South Sudan – With a GNI per capita of $307, South Sudan is one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world. It has faced significant challenges since gaining independence in 2011, including conflict, political instability, and economic challenges.
- Malawi – With a GNI per capita of $361, Malawi is one of the poorest countries in Africa. It faces significant challenges in terms of economic development, healthcare, and education, as well as environmental issues such as droughts and floods.
- Niger – With a GNI per capita of $381, Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world. It is located in the Sahel region of Africa and faces significant challenges in terms of food security, healthcare, and education.
- Mozambique – With a GNI per capita of $499, Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in Africa. It has faced significant challenges in terms of political instability, natural disasters, and economic development.
- Liberia – With a GNI per capita of $516, Liberia is one of the poorest countries in Africa. It has faced significant challenges in terms of political instability, poverty, and healthcare, including the Ebola epidemic in 2014.
- Central African Republic – With a GNI per capita of $522, the Central African Republic is one of the poorest countries in the world. It has faced significant challenges in terms of political instability, poverty, and violence, including conflict between various armed groups.
- Madagascar – With a GNI per capita of $528, Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in Africa. It faces significant challenges in terms of deforestation, poverty, and healthcare, as well as political instability and corruption.
- Democratic Republic of Congo – With a GNI per capita of $552, the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the poorest countries in Africa. It has faced significant challenges in terms of conflict, political instability, and economic development, as well as issues such as Ebola and other health crises.
- Afghanistan – With a GNI per capita of $585, Afghanistan is one of the poorest countries in Asia. It has faced significant challenges in terms of conflict, political instability, and poverty, as well as issues such as natural disasters and health crises