Growth and in-work poverty in Africa

Abstract This article analyzed the interrelations between economic growth and in-work poverty. The study considered a sample of 43 African countries over the period 2000–2001. Using a varied methodology, the results led to mixed conclusions. The findings suggest that the effect of growth on middle- and high-income countries differs from that in low-income countries. More specifically, different sectors of the economy have varying impacts on the level of in-work poverty, depending on the country group. Overall, growth is impoverishing for all countries, particularly for the group of low-income countries. Our policy implications point towards both structural and cyclical measures related to economic policy objectives and labor market mechanisms. JEL Codes: C23; C33; E61; J31 ; J81