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Information communications technology and economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa: A panel data approach

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  • Haftu, Girmay Giday

Abstract

This research empirically analyzed the impact of mobile phone and the Internet on per capita income of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) for the period of 2006–2015 using a panel data of 40 countries. We have employed the robust two-step system GMM. Results showed that growth in mobile phone penetration has contributed significantly to the GDP per capita of the region after controlling for a number of other variables. A 10% increase in mobile phone penetration results in a 1.2% change in GDP per capita. Therefore, improving access to mobile phones will play a critical role in reducing the poverty level of the region through raising the per capita income of the population.

Suggested Citation

  • Haftu, Girmay Giday, 2019. "Information communications technology and economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa: A panel data approach," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 43(1), pages 88-99.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:43:y:2019:i:1:p:88-99
    DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2018.03.010
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