Does informality increase the spread of COVID-19 in Africa? A cross-country examination
Pierre Nguimkeu, Cédric Okou
Abstract
The informal economy absorbs a large share (more than 80%) of the labour force in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We examine whether a high level of informality tends to exacerbate the spread of the COVID-19. Using publicly available data for a cross-section of 46 SSA, we find evidence that confirms this hypothesis.
Topics & Concepts
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Cross countrySevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakEconomicsDemographic economicsDevelopment economicsDiseaseVirologyOutbreakPathologyBiologyMedicineInfectious disease (medical specialty)COVID-19 epidemiological studiesCOVID-19 Pandemic ImpactsAgricultural risk and resilience