Why are West African countries… | Economics

Question 1 Report

Why are West African countries referred to as under-developed?

Answer

Answer Details

West African countries are described as under-developed because they show the typical features of poverty and low economic advancement:

Low per-capita income: average income per person is low, so living standards are poor.
Over-dependence on agriculture and primary products: economies rely heavily on the export of raw materials with little processing.
Low level of savings and investment: because incomes are low, capital formation is small.
Widespread illiteracy: low levels of education and skill limit productivity.
Low level of technology: production relies on crude, out-of-date methods.
High rate of population growth: rapid population increase outstrips output and strains resources.
High unemployment and underemployment.
Poor infrastructure: inadequate roads, power, water and communications.
Dependence on foreign aid and external loans.

Why are West African countries referred to as under-developed?