Economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa is not enough to reduce poverty, says World Bank – Africa Links 24

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Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abdul Rashid Thomas
Published on 2024-04-09 07:46:30

The latest Africa’s Pulse report from the World Bank indicates that economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to increase in the next two years, although it may not have a significant impact on poverty levels. The report highlights that factors such as private consumption and lower inflation rates are contributing to an economic recovery in the region. However, this growth is fragile due to challenges such as global economic uncertainty, rising debt levels, natural disasters, and conflict.

The report emphasizes the need for transformative policies to address deep-rooted inequality in order to sustain long-term economic growth and reduce poverty effectively. It predicts that economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa will rebound in 2024, with projected growth rates of 3.4 percent in 2024 and 3.8 percent in 2025, up from 2.6 percent in 2023.

Despite this projected growth, the report notes that the pace of economic expansion in the region is still lower than in previous decades and may not have a significant impact on poverty reduction. In fact, growth in Sub-Saharan Africa has been found to have a smaller impact on poverty compared to other regions around the world.

The report also highlights challenges such as high inflation rates, unsustainable debt burdens for many governments, and limited external resources to meet financing needs. Political instability, geopolitical tensions, and environmental factors like climate shocks are additional factors that could impact economic activity and food security in the region.

Moreover, inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa is among the highest in the world, with disparities in access to basic services, markets, and income-generating opportunities. The report suggests that addressing these structural constraints, promoting macroeconomic stability, supporting intergenerational mobility, and ensuring fair fiscal policies are crucial for fostering stronger and more equitable growth in the region.

Overall, the report calls for a comprehensive approach to tackling inequality and promoting sustainable economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa. By addressing these challenges and implementing appropriate policies, African countries can work towards a more prosperous and equitable future for all.

To read the full World Bank Africa Pulse spring report, please visit the link provided.

Read the original article on Sierra Leone Telegraph

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