Lagos, Nigeria – A recent report analysing the GDP-PPP (Purchasing Power Parity) per capita across 52 African economies highlights the wealth disparities on the continent. The data offers a comprehensive breakdown of economic output per person, adjusted for real purchasing power, shedding light on the varying standards of living across the region.
The five wealthiest nations, measured by real GDP-PPP per capita, are led by the Seychelles, with an impressive $29,711.9 per capita. Following closely are Mauritius ($22,246.1), Gabon ($19,546.4), Equatorial Guinea ($18,180.2), and Egypt ($17,158.4).
Rounding out the top ten are Botswana ($16,651.5), South Africa ($14,222.7), Algeria ($12,893.2), Tunisia($12,159.1), and Namibia ($10,705.2). Notably, six of these nations—excluding Egypt, South Africa, Algeria, and Tunisia—are characterised by relatively small populations, ranging from 0.11 to 2.59 million, and collectively account for just 0.06% to 0.7% of the region’s total economic output.
While the wealthiest nations enjoy significant per capita GDPs, the data also underscores the economic struggles faced by many African countries. Less than a quarter of the continent’s nations (19.2%) reported a real GDP-PPP per capita exceeding $2,000. The most economically challenged country is Burundi, with a GDP-PPP per capita of just $981, the only nation below the $1,000 mark.
The five least wealthy economies are Burundi ($981), Central African Republic ($1,085), Somalia ($1,134), Mozambique ($1,440), and Niger ($1,538).
The report highlights a crucial distinction between population size and per capita wealth. Nations like Seychelles and Mauritius, with small populations, dominate the rankings due to their efficient economic structures and higher income levels. Meanwhile, larger nations with significant populations often face challenges in achieving comparable per capita wealth, reflecting structural issues in economic output and income distribution.
The findings underline the importance of tailored economic strategies to bridge the gaps between Africa’s wealthiest and most vulnerable nations, fostering inclusive growth and equitable development.
