Search

The idea to find out if economic growth is pro-poor in Niger comes from the observation that despite good macroeconomic performance during the 2000s, poverty remains high. In this paper, two objectives are pursued. First, using an approach based on Kakwani et al. (2002), pro-poor growth is examined according to regional characteristics and place of residence. From the results obtained, it appears that overall economic growth is pro-poor Nigerien, except in cities (including Niamey) where growth seems to be pro-rich - the negative interference of inequality more than offset the positive effect of growth. Second, a simulation exercise is proposed to estimate the level of growth required to reduce poverty by 50 per cent, consistent with the objectives of the Millennium Development Goals. The study shows that Niger cannot achieve such a goal by maintaining a growth rate of 10.5 per cent, and only in 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]