Economic growth in Africa has been a mixed bag over the past decade. While some nations have experienced impressive strides in development, others have faced significant setbacks, particularly when it comes to GDP per capita growth—a key indicator of how economic expansion translates into improved living standards for individual citizens.
When GDP per capita falls or stagnates, it paints a picture of deeper economic distress. This stagnation often reflects structural issues such as inflation, population pressure, underemployment, and weak institutions. For many African countries, such trends hinder not only personal prosperity but national development as a whole.
According to data compiled by World Economics, these are the top 10 African countries with the lowest GDP per capita growth between 2014 and 2024. In some cases, the decline has been drastic, revealing serious economic challenges that have directly affected the livelihoods of millions.
📉 Top 10 African Countries with the Lowest GDP Per Capita Growth (2014–2024)
| Rank | Country | GDP per Capita 2014 (Int$) | GDP per Capita 2024 (Int$) | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Sudan | $7,339 | $4,081 | -44.4% |
| 2️⃣ | Angola | $19,781 | $13,888 | -29.0% |
| 3️⃣ | Congo Republic | $16,927 | $12,043 | -28.9% |
| 4️⃣ | Chad | $4,121 | $3,071 | -25.5% |
| 5️⃣ | Burundi | $1,763 | $1,494 | -15.3% |
| 6️⃣ | Lesotho | $4,543 | $4,034 | -11.3% |
| 7️⃣ | Namibia | $17,299 | $15,415 | -10.9% |
| 8️⃣ | Sierra Leone | $3,513 | $3,195 | -9.1% |
| 9️⃣ | Gabon | $41,913 | $39,652 | -5.4% |
| 🔟 | Nigeria | $11,383 | $10,800 | -5.1% |
💡 Why This Matters
A drop in GDP per capita means fewer resources for individuals and families. This often translates into reduced access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities. Countries like Sudan, Angola, and the Republic of Congo, which top this list, are dealing with a combination of political instability, overdependence on volatile commodities, and slow structural reforms.
Moreover, countries with declining per capita income find it harder to attract foreign direct investment, foster technological growth, or maintain social stability. As inequality widens, the most vulnerable segments of the population bear the brunt—leading to higher poverty levels, unrest, and a shrinking middle class.
🌍 The Broader Picture
While some African economies are booming with double-digit GDP growth, the experience of the average citizen can be starkly different. True development must translate into inclusive growth—and that’s where GDP per capita becomes such a vital metric.
Governments across the continent must take these figures as a wake-up call. Economic policies should prioritize diversification, human capital development, and inclusive governance to reverse these trends and put nations back on the path of shared prosperity.
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