Key players in economic development
Journal
Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization
ISSN
0167-2681
Type
journal article
Date Issued
2024-07
Author(s)
Abstract
This paper analyzes the role of networks in the spatial diffusion of local economic shocks in Africa. We show that geographic connectivity, along with road and ethnic connectivity, are important for diffusing economic spillovers over longer distances. We then determine the key players, that is, which districts are key in propagating local economic shocks across Africa. Using these results, we conduct counterfactual policy exercises to evaluate the potential gains from policies that increase economic activity in specific districts or improve road connectivity between districts.
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
yes
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
223
Start page
40
End page
56
Subject(s)