ETHNOPOLITICAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN SUB‑SAHARAN AFRICA: A Review

This chapter traces the evolution of ethnicity, and specifically ethnic diversity, as an important phenomenon and subject of inquiry in development economics—and African development in particular. Africa’s ethnic diversity makes the continent an intriguing kaleidoscope of cultures, traditions, religions, and languages. Empirical studies suggest that ethnic diversity is an impediment to economic development and growth in sub-Saharan Africa. Yet ethnicity is multidimensional on the subcontinent; empirical studies are often data-driven and do not necessarily identify the pertinent expressions of ethnic identity. This chapter argues that in the context of sub-Saharan Africa, the theoretical perspectives on ethnicity require a more thorough analysis to determine the mechanisms through which ethnicity and ethnic diversity influence African development.