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Paper short abstract:

This paper reviews evidence on the levels of inequality and economic growth of seven Sub-Saharan African economies that have experienced different forms and extent of colonial heritage.

Paper long abstract:

This paper reviews evidence on economic growth and trends in inequality for a group of Sub-Saharan African economies that have experienced different forms, levels and sources of colonial heritage, including the extent of alienation of land by settler and types and levels of infrastructural development.

The economies considered include Tanzania (Germany/UK), Ethiopia (Italy/none), Kenya (UK), Mozambique (Portugal), Cote d'Ivoire (France), Rwanda (Belgium) and Ghana (UK). Comparisons will be made between the different economies to establish potential causes of any observed differences. The paper will consider:

What are the different experiences in terms of economic growth and how can they be explained?

To what extent has this economic growth been accompanied by changes in inequality?

Are there any specific factors that can be associated with differences in the share of economic growth accruing to the poorest groups?

Do any of the specific factors related to colonial heritage help explain the differences in economic performance and levels of inequality?

To what extent has globalisation allowed these countries to diversify sources of external investment and enhance their impact?