By: Chibuikem Dibor-Alfred, Hüseyin Özdeşer, Fatma Türüç
Pages: 555–573, Volume: 3, Number: 1
Published by: AEFUNAI Journal of Economics, Finance and Development Studies, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, 2/1/2026, 2026
ISSN (Electronic): 2536-6742
DOI:
Nexus between Gender Gaps in the Labour Market and Economic Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa
Abstract:
This paper investigates gender disparities in the labour market and their implications for economic growth. Utilizing data from 2000 to 2020 sourced from World Bank indicators, the study employed the Fixed Effects Regression technique and Granger Causality methods to analyze data from sub-Saharan African countries. The findings reveal a negative and statistically significant relationship between female wage rate and economic growth in the region, likely due to occupational segregation in low-productivity sectors. However, female employment emerges as a key driver of economic growth, underscoring the importance of policies aimed at gender inclusiveness in the labour market, eradicating wage gender discrimination, and reducing wage differentials. Additionally, the rise of the service economy is noted as a significant factor in increasing female labour force participation.
Keywords: Gender gaps, Labour market, Workforce participation, Wage inequality, SSA
How to Cite
Dibor-Alfred, C., –zde?er, H., & T–r––, F. (2026). Nexus between Gender Gaps in the Labour Market and Economic Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from Fixed Effects Regression and Granger Causality. AEFUNAI Journal of Economics, Finance and Development Studies (AEFUNAI-JEFDS), Vol. 3(1), 555–573.
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0)
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