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The role of telecommunications infrastructure in the regional economic growth of Africa

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  • Michael Enowbi Batuo

    (University of Westminster, UK)

Abstract

This paper presents empirical evidence on how telecommunications infrastructure is related to economic growth in a panel dataset covering 44 African countries for the period from 1990 to 2010. A dynamic panel data approach model is employed, which suggests that telecommunications contribute in a major way to the economic development of the continent, after controlling for a number of other factors. Furthermore, the findings also show that investment in telecommunications is subject to increasing returns, demonstrating that an increase in telecommunications investment produces further growth. Therefore, telecommunications investment and services should be encouraged in the region.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Enowbi Batuo, 2015. "The role of telecommunications infrastructure in the regional economic growth of Africa," Journal of Developing Areas, Tennessee State University, College of Business, vol. 49(1), pages 313-330, January-M.
    • Handle: RePEc:jda:journl:vol.49:year:2015:issue1:pp:313-330
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Infrastructure; Growth; Africa; Panel;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H54 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Infrastructures
    • O47 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - Empirical Studies of Economic Growth; Aggregate Productivity; Cross-Country Output Convergence
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa

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