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Roads and child health in Sub-Saharan Africa

Author

Listed:
  • Luisito Bertinelli

    (DEM, Université du Luxembourg)

  • Evie Graus

    (DEM, Université du Luxembourg)

  • Jean-François Maystadt

    (UC Louvain, B)

  • Silvia Peracchi

    (UC Louvain, B)

Abstract

This paper examines the causal impact of road access on child health in Sub-Saharan Africa between 1980 and 2012 by combining geolocated data on child anthropometric outcomes with spatial data on road networks. To address endogeneity, we employ an instrumental variable approach based on the inconsequential units framework, constructing hypothetical road networks that connect historical cities and active mines. Our results show that closer proximity to paved roads significantly improves child health. The main mechanisms operate through improved healthcare access and utilization, higher household wealth, early signs of structural transformation, and cropland expansion. We find no evidence that these gains are offset by adverse environmental or epidemiological effects of improved road access. Overall, the findings underscore the role of road infrastructure in fostering development across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Suggested Citation

  • Luisito Bertinelli & Evie Graus & Jean-François Maystadt & Silvia Peracchi, 2025. "Roads and child health in Sub-Saharan Africa," DEM Discussion Paper Series 25-18, Department of Economics at the University of Luxembourg.
    • Handle: RePEc:luc:wpaper:25-18
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration
    • I15 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health and Economic Development
    • O18 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Urban, Rural, Regional, and Transportation Analysis; Housing; Infrastructure
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa

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