COVID-19 Crisis in Africa
An ETH Zurich Development Economics Group research project.
Due to widespread poverty and lack of infrastructure in many countries throughout sub-Saharan Africa, social-distancing measures and hand-washing guidelines, as recommended by the World Health Organization to slow down COVID-19 infection rates, might prove difficult to enforce.
Using household survey data for more than 30 low- and middle-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa, we study the preparedness of countries in Africa to respond to the COVID-19 crisis. We focus particular attention on readiness metrics related to social distancing measures, health infrastructure, and hygiene guidelines, as well the impact of the crisis on household wellbeing.
