Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have been identified as the African countries with the largest share of global extreme poverty, according to new data from Statista. The data reveals that 11.7% of the world's population living in extreme poverty, defined as surviving on less than $2.15 a day, reside in these two countries.

This staggering statistic is part of a broader trend of poverty affecting millions of people across the African continent. Despite Africa's rich resources and youthful population, many countries continue to struggle with high poverty levels, limited access to basic services, and economic instability, issues that keep generations trapped in hardship.

Rural areas are disproportionately affected, with 45% of rural Africans living in extreme poverty compared to only 7% in urban areas. Malnutrition is also a common issue, as many people struggle to access enough food, which only worsens their health and deepens the poverty cycle.

The data also highlights the widespread nature of poverty across Africa, with Tanzania, Mozambique, and Madagascar also facing high poverty rates. In fact, across Africa, about 429 million people were living below the extreme poverty line in 2024, which is roughly a third of the continent's population.

Countries like Mozambique, Malawi, the Central African Republic, and Niger have some of the highest poverty rates, according to the $2.15 a day poverty threshold. The reasons for poverty are complex and multifaceted, ranging from lack of access to education, healthcare, jobs, and nutrition, to the ongoing challenges posed by war and conflict.

The top 10 African countries with the largest share of global extreme poverty are: Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (11.7%), Tanzania (4%), Mozambique (4%), Madagascar (3.3%), Uganda (3%), Malawi (2.8%), Ethiopia (2.6%), Kenya (2.3%), and Niger (2.2%).

This data serves as a stark reminder of the need for sustained efforts to address poverty and inequality in Africa. It also highlights the importance of targeted interventions and investments in education, healthcare, and economic development to break the cycle of poverty and unlock the continent's full potential.

As the African continent continues to grapple with the challenges of poverty, it is essential to acknowledge the complexity of the issue and the need for a multifaceted approach to address it. By shedding light on the scope and scale of poverty in Africa, this data can inform and guide efforts to create a more equitable and prosperous future for all Africans.