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Gender Inequality and Economic Development: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa

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  • Onogwu, Daniel

Abstract

In developed countries, there is a substantial gender convergence over the last century. This cannot be said for Sub-Saharan Africa. Women are underrepresented in most economic and political spheres of the region. The implication is that the overall productivity decreases in the region. This study provides empirical evidence of gender inequality on economic development in the Sub-Saharan Africa region. I conduct panel regression of 29 Sub Sahara African countries over the period from 1996 to 2019. The results show that there is a significant negative impact of gender inequality on economic development in the region, holding other variables constant. Conversely, gender parity has a positive effect on economic development as evidence in the results. I also find that, Capital accumulation (proxy as Gross Capital Formation), trade openness and population growth are key drivers of economic development of the region. I recommend policies that promote gender equity, trade openness, and growth of healthy population to promote economic development in the region.

Suggested Citation

  • Onogwu, Daniel, 2021. "Gender Inequality and Economic Development: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa," MPRA Paper 111209, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:pra:mprapa:111209
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • O1 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development

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