Burundi

This East African nation is considered the poorest on the planet. The average income per capita does not exceed $780. The basis of Burundi's economy is the agricultural sector, which occupies more than 90% of the country's labor force and provides about 40% of GDP. Despite this, approximately 80% of the local population lives in poverty, and 57% of children under five suffer from chronic malnutrition. The main factors leading Burundi to poverty are the scarcity of natural resources, poor infrastructure, and high population growth.

Central African Republic

CAR, located in the heart of the African continent, is also among the poorest countries on the planet, even though the state has large mines of diamonds and gold. The average income per capita hardly exceeds $980. The main reasons for poverty in this region are frequent military conflicts on political grounds, a high level of corruption, poor infrastructure, and limited opportunities for the population to receive basic services.

South Sudan

South Sudan, located in east-central Africa, is also among the poorest countries in the world. The average income per capita here is not more than $1,040. From 2013 to 2020, the country lived in a regime of almost continuous military conflict, which seriously undermined its economy and markedly deteriorated the well-being of its inhabitants. Today, nearly 80% of South Sudan's population is extremely poor, severely food insecure, and in need of humanitarian support.

Congo

Congo, which is the largest country in sub-Saharan Africa, has an average income per capita of $1,110. Despite its vast natural wealth, such as cobalt, copper, and diamonds, this state is also characterized by a rather difficult economic environment and widespread poverty. The main reason for all the troubles in Congo are the unstable political situation in the country, frequent military conflicts, and a very high level of corruption.

Somalia

Somalia, which is located in northeastern Africa, closes the list of the poorest countries in the world. Like the other states on the list, this country is also troubled by an unstable political situation and constant armed unrest, which is the main cause of its stagnant economy and widespread poverty. In addition, Somalia's difficult situation is aggravated by its hot climate with recurring droughts and its location along the Gulf of Aden, which is notorious for piracy.