Institutions and Economic Transformation in Africa

Abstract

Economic transformation suggests sustainable and inclusive economic development. It includes the changes in the structures of the economy in favour of more productive sectors to ensure consistent economic progress. This has been the earnest desire of most African countries. However, achieving economic transformation will require strong institutions, among others. The channels through which institutions can influence the process of economic development using specific country analyses are still under-researched. Thus, this study examines the importance of institutions in the development and sustenance of some important sectors: finance, education, technology, industry, and trade, believed to drive economic transformation. Drawing evidence from Nigeria, the study submits that institutions have varying influence on all the selected sectors. Thus, the role of specific sectoral planning based on a strong institutional framework cannot be overemphasised in a country's quest for economic transformation.