LED as an Alternative Approach to Economic Development in Sub-Saharan Africa

From a development perspective, is Sub Sahara Africa (SSA) different?

This analysis shows that the evolution of trade, urbanization, territorial inequalities and decentralization in SSA is broadly in line with that of other parts of the world. The only area where SSA seems to be clearly out of step with other countries with similar starting conditions is in economic performance.

The authors argue that LED strategies are as likely to succeed in SSA as in most other low- and middle-income countries. LED can thus be considered as a complement or an alternative, to existing development strategies in the Continent.

About the Authors

Andrés Rodríguez-Pose is a Professor of Economic Geography and Director of the MSc in Local Economic Development at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Sylvia Tijmstra is a Post-Graduate Researcher in the Department of Geography and Environment at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Research Materials

Abbreviated Report 

Full Report 

Bibliography