In the poorest countries of the world, even the basic needs like food and water can get very scarce. The growth of the economy of nations is based on different factors. While first-world countries enjoy a Gross Domestic Product of at least USD $30,000, poor countries are way below that number. Here is a list of countries with a GDP of USD $1,000 and lower.
10. Afghanistan
GDP: USD $1,072.19
A war-torn country, Afghanistan has figured in several armed conflicts since 1979. Poverty is widespread in 42% of the population. For the 52% who are above the poverty line, 20% of them are at the risk in joining the other demographic. The 30 years of conflict, low economic investment, and natural disasters make it difficult for Afghanistan to get back up on its feet.
9. Madagascar
GDP: USD $972.07
Although featured as an exotic jungle off the African East Coast, Madagascar was on an economic decline from 1970 to 1995. For 25 years, it has battled with low per capita income amidst a doubling population. There was a slight market recovery from 1991 to 2002 but it wasn’t enough to get the country into an increasing growth momentum.
8. Malawi
GDP: USD $893.84
About 74% of the people in Malawi live in poverty. Buy that, it means that families would have to make do with a budget of USD $1.25 a day. Agriculture and fishing are the two most important sectors of Malawi’s economy. The people don’t have easy access to education as well, which is also the reason why economic recovery is not to be expected for this country in the near future.
7. Niger
GDP: USD $853.43
Being an underdeveloped nation, Niger would have to find out how they can educate its younger population as their number keeps on increasing. With almost 76% of the population living below USD $2 a day, Niger is clearly one of the poorest nations of the world. The women in the rural areas have very limited access to basic social services and employment.
6. Central African Republic
GDP: USD $827.93
Extreme poverty is experienced in the most part of the Central African Republic. This nation has more than 80 ethnic groups which lead to extreme cultural differences. Furthermore, the nation experienced coup d’ etats, brutal regimes and rebellions. Although a land of gleaming diamonds, 90% of the people in the Central African Republic are living below poverty line.
5. Eritrea
GDP: USD $792.13
The end of 30-year war with Ethiopia in 1993 signaled the start for Eritrea to begin anew. However, the nation has been struggling since then. Being a small country, the economy of Eritrea can be likened to that of many African nations. The country also experienced four years of drought, which added up to the many problems that the country is already facing.
4. Liberia
GDP: USD $716.04
Another nation that just got off a war, Liberia’s GDP was at its lowest in 2010 with a value of $400. It gained a slight momentum from then on but they still have a long way to go. Almost 80% of the Liberian population has to make do with USD $1.25 a day. The United Nations classify Liberia as a nation where there currently is food deficit and insecurity.
3. Burundi
GDP: USD $648.58
Burundi is located at the center of the African Great Lakes. Although a very small nation, it has seen numerous troubles and violence, enough to gravely affect its economy. The UN described Burundi’s GDP as worse than during a pre-war level. Conflicts, ethnic issues and political rivalry are the major issues affecting this nation.
2. Zimbabwe
GDP: USD $589.46
Although Zimbabwe’s statistics on health and education is rather good, its political and economic systems are not. As of writing, Zimbabwe is highly relying on remittances and emergency aids to make do with its every day need. Furthermore, the country’s road network is in dire need of rehabilitation. And while over the years, the cases of HIV and AIDs has declined, this country is still among the nations with the highest number of HIV-positive patients.
1. Congo – Kinshasa
GDP: $394.25
Congo is currently the poorest country in the entire world. Since 1980, more than half of the country’s people live below the poverty line, especially those who live in the rural areas. Even access to a potable water supply can be difficult. Most of the children under five years old are malnourished. The cases of HIV and AIDS are also rampant. Congo has also suffered from numerous military coups and civil conflicts.
Amber is passionate about health and lifestyle and loves to write and share her knowledge. Amber has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and she loves to travel, read and watch movies.