American International Journal of Social Science

ISSN 2325-4149(Print), ISSN 2325-4165(Online) DIO: 10.30845/aijss

Causes of Poverty in Africa: A Review of Literature
Alex Addae-Korankye

Abstract
The study analysed and reviewed the causes of poverty in Africa. The study found that poverty in Africa is caused by a number of factors including corruption and poor governance, limited employment opportunities, poor infrastructure, poor resource usage, wars and unending conflicts, poor World Bank and IMF policies, among others. Poverty the study revealed is also caused by cultural and structural factors. The poor lacks the capacity to influence social processes, public policy, and resources allocation. Poor people are also said to lack access to relevant skills and knowledge, education and personal development that could improve their livelihoods. The study concluded that poverty can only be fought in the presence of strong institutions, and equitable distribution of resources. This requires a non-corrupt government. However, in Africa, programmes designed to fight poverty are not fully implemented because the funds end up in the hands of corrupt individuals, who pocket the majority.

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