The aim of this paper is to assess and evaluate the performance of Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries towards the international development goals and targets set by the United Nations, UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). This paper provides a clearer understanding of the constraints facing SSA in reaching the MDGs with special focus on economic and poverty. The paper also outlines the urgency for action at the national, regional, and international levels and therefore contributes to the knowledge about the challenges facing SSA countries to achieve the international development goals.