As cliché as it may be, many believe that money makes the world go round. Upon second thought, this notion really doesn’t seem to be too far fetched at all. In general, some of the most powerful people in the world tend to be the richest ones, and some of the richest people in the world tend to become some of the most powerful. Whether an accurate unit of measurement or not, a multitude of people around the world will end up defining their success through the money they’ve made throughout their lives. If not anything else, money is an easy unit of measurement to work with because it’s probably the only directly quantifiable measure of success there is.
With all of being said, quite possibly the only thing as powerful as having money, is lacking it. There is such an obvious disparity between rich and poor all over the world. Furthermore, even the definition of the word “poor” is relative to the context and location. Having money can surge a nation forward, while not having it can hold a nation back. To see just exactly how powerful this is, here are the Top 10 Poorest Countries in the World.
10 – Guinea (GDP per capita of $523.10)
Typically, the wealth of a country is measured by its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, which is the purchasing power of all goods and services produced in a country, divided by its population. In essence, this defines the purchasing power of a single person within the country. To begin this list is Guinea, with a GDP per capita of $523.10. Guinea hasn’t seen a period of economic stability since the 1990’s, when their mining and agricultural industries did them well. Since then however, Guinea has fallen victim to sever sociopolitical crises, which rapidly decayed the state of their economy. Much of their economy is still largely based on agriculture, which is difficult because farmers only have access to outdated information and obsolete technology, as investors tend to shy away from the nation entirely.
9 – Ethiopia (GDP per capita of $505.00)
Shoppers and vendors make their way down a flooded street in Merkato, one of Africa’s largest market areas, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)
Interestingly enough, Ethiopia has historically been a relatively wealthy nation. Although today, and throughout recent years, this really hasn’t been the case. To its credit, Ethiopia theoretically has the right practices in place. They’ve been undergoing a large political reform, one of the benefits of which is the supposed facilitation of economic growth and stability. In fact, since 2007, Ethiopia has places itself above many sub-Saharan African nations in terms of its economic performance. Although regardless of this, it remains one of the poorest nations in the world, only holding a GDP per capita of $505.00. This is a result of Ethiopia’s large population, and dependence on a poorly funded, underdeveloped, and vulnerable agricultural industry as a staple in their economy.
8 – The Gambia (GDP per capita of $488.60
Next on the list is The Gambia, both one of the African continent’s smallest and
poorest nations. With an area of roughly 11,000 square kilometers, and a population of roughly 1.8 million people, The Gambia struggles immensely with trying to make economic leaps forward. Although there are multiple factors to consider, what is likely their biggest hindrance is the lack of diversity within their economic system. The Gambia relies primarily, and almost solely, on farming and fishing to drive their economy. Both of these are incredibly vulnerable to poor weather conditions. It also doesn’t help that the soil fertility of the farming land is typically low, further decreasing both the quantity and quality of seasonal yields. These alone causes several ripple effects towards their economy and the subsequent living conditions that the people of the nation have to endure. With a GDP per capita of $488.60, and over half of the population living well under the poverty line, the people of The Gambia are subject to such a poor standard of living that the nation falls into a “hunger season” when rainfall is at its peak.
7 – Democratic Republic of the Congo (GDP per capita of $484.20
Directly juxtaposing the previous entry in the list, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is Africa’s second largest country, holding a staggering population of roughly 77 million people. A large population isn’t always a good thing however, as (especially with poorer nations) this just means there is less money to go around. What is even more intriguing about this case, however, is the fact that the Democratic Republic of the Congo is actually very rich in valuable natural resources. Similarly, the land expands over 2.35 million square kilometers, much of which is forests, although it also holds a great expanse of farmable lands and waters. In spite of all of these things, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been subject to a very unstable, corrupt political system that has been holding back the potential of the nation’s wealth drastically. As a result of this, with a GDP per capita of $484.20, a large portion of the nation’s people remain unemployed, and their lack of money thus results in their living within greatly inadequate living conditions.
6 – Madagascar (GDP per capita of $463.00
Madagascar
Although this remains a list of the world’s poorest nations, some of the nations on this list are actually making progress in securing economic stability for themselves. Madagascar, unfortunately, is not one of these countries. Over the last 20 years, the standard of living within this island country has declined significantly. With a population of more than 20 million people, Madagascar has a GDP per capita of $463.00, with about 70 percent of the nation’s people living under the poverty line. Once again reliant primarily on agriculture, the vulnerability of the industry, lack of potent farming land, and the growing population only make their economic situation worse and worse over time.
5 – Liberia (GDP per capita of $454.30)
Liberia
The Second Liberian Civil war was a conflict within Liberia that lasted from 1999 all the way through 2003. A quick look at history will show that wars generally don’t leave involved nations economically intact as a result. Liberia is no exception to this. Having just been subject to a 14 year-long political conflict that not only ravaged lands, but also needed to make use of some of Liberia’s already finite resources, the nation was left economically crumbled by the civil war. It is also of no benefit that Liberia is, once again, primarily reliant on agriculture to drive its economy. The GDP per capita of the war-torn nation stands at $454.30, and in 2010, it was estimated that more than 80 percent of the nation’s people were living less with less than $1.25 per day. With low yields due to old farming technologies, as well as having overall poor infrastructure, Libera only marks the halfway point down this list of the poorest countries in the world.
4 – Niger (GDP per capita of $415.40)
Aside from being one of the world’s poorest, Niger stands as one of the world’s most underdeveloped nations across several categories. Although it continues to make developments in reducing infant mortality, and enhancing education, the development category of poverty has unfortunately remained rather stagnant, keeping the nation’s GDP per capita at $415.40. Niger’s economy is driven by two main forces: the extraction of valuable natural resources available within the nation (including gold, uranium, and even oil), and small-scale agriculture. Unfortunately, both of these economic sources can easily be devastated by random shifts in climate and weather, and thus Niger has struggled in developing themselves economically.
3 – Central African Republic (GDP per capita of $333.20)
Like Liberia, the Central African Republic has in the past been victim to war and
significant political instability. The landlocked central African nation also supports very, very poor infrastructure, thus limiting the efficiency of the distribution of the nation’s resources. Furthermore, this nation also shares similarities with most other African nations in that its economy is mostly directed by agriculture, although an estimated 45 percent of the Central African Republic’s export revenues are from diamonds. However, because of the poor infrastructure and governance that the nation has to deal with, only about 4 percent of the actual arable land that the nation holds is actually used. As a result, the majority of the working population that works within the industry suffer immensely, holding the nation to a GDP per capita of $333.20.
2 – Burundi (GDP per capita of $267.10)
Having suffered from recurring violence and political disputes, it is no surprise that Burundi ranks as the second poorest nation in the world, even though the country is working tirelessly to rebuild itself. Aside from the estimated 300,000 civilian casualties resulting in a 67 percent poverty rate, the violent political rivalries were also detrimental to Burundi’s agricultural development. Even now, the nation ravaged by war holds very little farmable land, and any land that may be used for small-scale farming is still fragile due to the vulnerability to shifting climates and weather conditions. With the population growing rapidly, food prices rising, and a GDP per capita of $267.10, Burundi places as the second poorest country in the world.
1 – Malawi (GDP per capita of $226.50)
malawi
Holding a population of 16 million while also being one of the smallest African nation doesn’t set you up for accumulation or distribution of wealth. Arguable the most underdeveloped nation in the world, Malawi suffers greatly in essentially all categories available. Access to education, general standard of healthcare, infrastructure, and quality of living conditions are all limited or substandard. Because the nation is unable to develop in general, they’re for all intents and purposes stuck with trying to drive their economy using only the most primitive levels of agriculture. With common weather variations, as well as injuries and fatalities facilitated by poor health care, Malawi’s world lowest GDP per capita of $226.50 doesn’t seem like it will be rising too significantly any time soon.
Sometimes days may seem tough. Maybe things just didn’t go the way you want, or perhaps you’re frustrated with where your life stands currently. While many may have perfectly valid reasons for frustration, it is equally as important to take moments everyday to appreciate the reasons your life may be great. There’s privilege to be seen everywhere, even in something so simple as the internet connection required for you to have read this article.
Khaid, a rising Nigerian music star, has recently returned to social media after a period of absence due to a serious health issue. He had been hospitalized for a month due to internal bleeding, which caused significant concern among his fans and fellow artists.
The young artist, whose real name is Sulaimon Shekoni Abiola, had been away from the public eye for several months. His health condition was initially revealed by his manager and record label boss, Sydney Talker. Videos showing Khaid in distress circulated online.
Upon his return to social media, Khaid made some dramatic changes to his online presence.
Most notably, he has unfollowed everyone on his Instagram account except for one person: the well-known musician Olamide. This unexpected action has sparked curiosity and speculation among his followers and industry insiders about potential changes in Khaid’s professional relationships.
The only hints about Khaid’s current state of mind come from a series of cryptic posts he has shared. These posts appear to address his critics and suggest that he may be experiencing both personal and professional conflicts.
“Y’all set me up but can never shut me up. FYI, I’m Young Trump, I wish y’all long life so y’all can reap what you’ve sown accordingly,” Khaid wrote in one of his posts. “Thank God for helping me overcome what many would face and die. They can’t hold the boy down, we rise again!”
Khaid’s decision to unfollow Sydney Talker on social media has surprised many.
Sydney Talker was instrumental in Khaid’s rise to fame, having signed him to Neville Records. This action has led to much speculation about possible conflicts or changes in their professional relationship.
Khaid and Sydney Talker
The exact reasons for Khaid’s dramatic social media changes are not yet known. Some people think this could be a strategy to gain public attention. Others believe it might indicate serious issues within Khaid’s professional circle.
Despite these controversies, many of Khaid’s fans continue to show strong support for him. They are excited to see what he will do next in his career.
Khaid’s recovery from his health problems and his return to social media represent a personal victory. Also, it shows the beginning of a new phase in his music career.
As Khaid moves forward in the music industry, his determination and resilience are clearly evident. Both his supporters and critics will be paying close attention to his next moves.
Khaid’s story is still developing, and many are interested to see how he will navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in his career.
Africa’s most popular reality TV show, Big Brother Naija, is about to launch its ninth season (BBNaija 9) in a few days. This season’s theme focuses on pairing contestants and creating dynamic duos, promising to bring exciting new elements to the show.
The upcoming BBNaija season 9 is designed to offer viewers unexpected twists and turns throughout its run. Contestants, known as housemates, will be entertaining audiences across Africa for a total of 71 days.
As the premiere approaches, viewers can anticipate five specific twists, turns, and prizes that will be part of this season’s BBNaija experience. These elements are expected to add extra excitement and intrigue to the show’s format.
The show’s producers have likely prepared these surprises to keep both the contestants and the audience engaged throughout the season. These new features may involve unique challenges, special rewards, or unexpected changes to the game’s rules.
1. BBNaija 9 is centred around duos
BBNaija season nine will revolve around the concept of duos. The show’s organizers have revealed that contestants will be selected based on their ability to function effectively as pairs. The focus on partnerships will be a central theme throughout the season.
“What Biggie has asked for this year is for pairs to audition, which is the first time this is happening. This year we asked for people to come with their friends, besties, family members, wives, husbands, and partners, to enter the show together as a pair. That was the selection criteria,” said Dr Busola Tejumola, the Executive Head, Content & Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice.
2. Big Prizes and sponsors
The grand prize for this season’s Big Brother Naija is a whopping ₦100 million. This impressive package includes a cash prize and a brand new SUV. While there are already several sponsors on board, the full list of prizes is still uncertain due to recent controversies surrounding sponsorships.
3. A new twist for the head of house
This season’s Head of House challenge will be unlike anything viewers have seen before. Starting immediately after the launch show on Sunday, there will be a new primetime activity that will kick off the competition.
Dr Tejumola said,
“Right after the launch show on Sunday, a new activity will start. This season has high stakes. It’s going to move fast, and it will unravel right from Sunday night when we launch the show.”
HoH Ballot, which will determine the first Head of House on Monday, July 29th will replace the usual Head of House challenge.
A series of challenges, including the Custodian Lock-In, Immunity Challenge, and nominations will follow through. The organizers are aiming to create a more dynamic and exciting experience for both contestants and viewers.
4. Fans can win too
In addition to the contestants competing for the grand prize, viewers have the chance to win as well through the Fave Lock-In. By predicting the winning pairs in the Immunity Challenge, lucky fans can win ₦1 million every week.
The new season of Big Brother Naija premieres on Sunday, July 28th on Africa Magic channels. To participate in voting and the Fave Lock-In, fans must download the new MyDStv app before the launch date. The old MyDStv app will no longer be available.
“Londoner” is an autobiographical film that tells the story of Ayo, a Nigerian bank manager who moves to London to reunite with his family. The film, written and directed by Babatunde Apalowo, recently achieved recognition at the Durban FilmMart. It won the Red Sea Film Fund Award for Best Fiction Feature. This prestigious award came with a cash prize of $5,000.
The Durban FilmMart Institute, which organized the event, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting both local and international trade and investment in African film content. This institute plays a crucial role in showcasing and supporting African filmmakers and their projects.
Babatunde Apalowo, the creative force behind “Londoner,” is a Nigerian film director and screenwriter who has made the United Kingdom his base. His portfolio includes several notable works such as “A Place for Happiness,” “Catcher,” “The Millions,” and “Death for Sale.” Apalowo’s talent received international recognition in 2023 when he won the Teddy Award at the Berlin Film Festival for his queer romance film titled “All the Colours of the World Are Between Black and White.”
The 15th edition of the Durban FilmMart, held in South Africa from July 19 to July 22, served as a platform for numerous impressive film projects from across the African continent. It was during this event that “Londoner” received its accolade.
Babatunde Apalowo
Produced by Pamela Drameh and Sarudzayi Marufu, “Londoner” goes into the complex emotions of its protagonist, Ayo. The film follows Ayo’s journey as he arrives in London, expecting to join his family, only to face an unexpected and heartbreaking situation. He discovers that his wife has become emotionally involved with another man and is seeking a divorce, adding a layer of personal turmoil to his already challenging experience of relocating to a new country.
The narrative of “Londoner” draws inspiration from Apalowo’s own experiences as an immigrant in the UK.
The director’s struggle to find a sense of belonging in a foreign land forms the emotional core of the film. In an interview with Variety, Apalowo shared his personal insights, highlighting the stark contrast between Nigeria and London in terms of personal space and social interactions. He poignantly described the loneliness he felt in London, a city where the anonymity and indifference of urban life stood in stark contrast to the close-knit communities he was accustomed to in Nigeria.
“Londoner” marks Apalowo’s second venture into feature filmmaking, showcasing his growth as a director and his ability to translate personal experiences into compelling cinematic narratives. The film’s success at the Durban FilmMart not only recognizes Apalowo’s talent but also brings attention to the important themes of migration, cultural adjustment, and personal relationships that the film explores.
The Durban FilmMart also celebrated other talented filmmakers. Among them were Sean Drummond and Sheetal Magan, who received The Known Inner Circle Award for their South African film “Acts of Man.” This award came with a substantial cash prize of $10,000, further demonstrating the event’s commitment to supporting and promoting African cinema.