Effects of the Road Network on Regional Economic Development in Burkina Faso

Abstract

This article assesses the effects of the road network allocation on regional economic development in Burkina Faso. Having completed three (03) estimates from the generalized method of moments (GMM) in system on a panel of 13 regions on the period from 2006 to 2013, the results show that the road network is a determinant factor of regional commodity production in Burkina Faso and this, through its positive effects on productivity on productive capital and labour. In addition, it revealed that asphalt roads admit more positive effects on commodity production, on productive capital and labour productivity than untarred roads. Regarding the last, they contribute positively and weakly to regional commodity production and in labour productivity. However, this category does not have positive effects on labour productivity. Thus, a policy of strengthening their length and quality is necessary in order to benefit from all the benefits of regional roads.

Keywords: Regional economic development, road network, effects, Burkina Faso.

DOI: 10.7176/JESD/11-12-02

Publication date:June 30th 2020