Top 10 African countries that escaped low-income status since 2000

Many African countries have transitioned from low-income to middle-income status based on Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, according to a World Bank report. Lower middle-income economies have a GNI per capita between $1,136 and $4,465, while upper middle-income economies exceed $4,466.

In the early 2000s, 63 countries accounted for over 60% of the 1.8 billion people in extreme poverty. Since then, 39 have advanced to middle-income status, though progress has slowed due to internal and global challenges.

As of 2023, 24 nations remain low-income, earning less than $1,145 per capita. In 2024, 26 countries—mostly in Sub-Saharan Africa—accounted for over 40% of global extreme poverty, with economic instability, conflicts, climate shocks, and rising debt stalling growth. Since 2010, their annual per capita growth has averaged below 0.1%.

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Despite these obstacles, several African nations have successfully moved up the income ladder.

According to The World Bank, here are the top 10 African countries that escaped low-income status since 2000 based on their current GNI per capita.

Equatorial Guinea leads the list, with its GNI per capita rising from $680 in 2000 to $5,240. The country’s growth has been driven by oil revenue, although economic diversification remains a challenge.

Côte d’Ivoire follows, with its GNI per capita increasing from $640 to $2,670. Political stability, infrastructure development, and agricultural exports have contributed to this progress.

São Tomé and Principe has seen its GNI per capita rise from $480 to $2,480. The country has focused on tourism, fisheries, and public-sector reforms to boost economic activity.

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The Republic of Congo recorded an increase from $560 to $2,470. The economy is supported by oil production, but efforts to diversify into agriculture and services have been introduced.

Ghana moved from a GNI per capita of $330 to $2,340. The country has benefited from improved governance, investment in infrastructure, and a growing services sector.

Mauritania progressed from $710 to $2,150. The economy relies on mining, particularly iron ore, and fisheries, with government initiatives supporting private sector growth.

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Angola experienced growth from $360 to $2,130. Oil exports have been the primary driver, but recent policies have focused on reducing dependency on the sector by promoting agriculture and manufacturing.

Kenya moved from $430 to $2,110. The country has a diversified economy with contributions from agriculture, services, and technology, particularly in mobile banking and digital services.

Nigeria has reached a GNI per capita of $1,930. Growth has been influenced by the oil sector, telecommunications, and financial services, although economic volatility remains a concern.

Zimbabwe saw an increase from $360 to $1,740. The country has made economic adjustments, including currency reforms and investment in key sectors, to stabilise growth.