Electricity Consumption and Health Outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Authors:
OYEDELE Ovikuomagbe
Publication Type: Journal article
Journal: International Journal Of Economics And Research
ISSN Number:
0
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Abstract
Electricity is a source of clean energy and its use is expected to advance better population health. Thus, the low level of electricity consumption in sub-Saharan Africa is alarming, as a greater percentage of member country populations would have little or no experience of electricity usage. The health hazards associated with alternative sources of energy or fuel including traditional solid fuels cannot be underestimated. This study examined the effect of electricity consumption on some health outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa. Estimating a panel model and accounting for potential endogeneity, electricity consumption per capita was found to have no significant effect on the infant and under-five mortality rates. However, where it was significant, it was found to reduce life expectancy at birth. An aggressive effort towards enhancing availability and affordability is paramount towards increasing electricity consumption and the consequential health gains.