Wracked by violence since its creation in 2011.Rich in oil reserves but faces the "resource curse" with political divisions, inequality, corruption, and warfare. Projected economic growth for 2023 at 5.8 per cent, but high inflation and acute food insecurity affecting 7.8 million people.
South Sudan
Scarred by a 12-year civil war and lacks natural resources. Food insecurity is high with 80% relying on subsistence agriculture. Low access to water, sanitation, and electricity. Efforts to relaunch the economy and repair diplomatic relationships, but sluggish growth and projected inflation at 16 per cent.
Burundi
Central African Republic (CAR)
Rich in resources but plagued by poverty. Increase in essential good prices and severe climate events leading to acute food insecurity for 2.7 million people.
Facing multiple challenges including COVID-19, floods, locust infestation, insurgency, and drought. Approximately half of the population in desperate need of assistance. High levels of poverty and food insecurity.
Somalia
History of dictatorship, political instability, and violence. Majority of the population living on less than two dollars a day. Rich in resources such as cobalt and copper, with potential for economic growth.
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Rich in resources but remains among the poorest countries. Islamic insurgent attacks in the gas-rich northern region. Positive medium-term economic outlook with projected growth of 5 per cent in 2023 and 8 per cent in 2024.
Mozambique
Threatened by desertification and high food insecurity. Clashes with Boko Haram leading to displacement. Economy expanding, projected growth of 6.1 per cent in 2023 and 13 per cent in 2024.
Niger
Economy vulnerable to weather-related shocks due to reliance on rain-fed crops. Food insecurity in rural areas is extremely high. Slow structural changes, annual GDP growth dipped in 2022 to 0.8 per cent.
Malawi
Oil-rich but widespread poverty. Misuse of oil revenues by autocratic rulers. Change in leadership after the death of Idriss Deby, military council in control.
Chad
Ranked among the poorest countries for many years. Challenges with inflation, unemployment, and negative economic growth. Recovery in GDP growth but continued economic struggles, upcoming presidential re-election in 2023.