DOES ASYMMETRIC NEXUS EXIST BETWEEN EXPORT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN AFRICA?

This study ‘’does asymmetric nexus exist between export and economic growth in West Africa? Investigated the impact of economic indicators on economic growth in selected West African countries, namely Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, and Niger. The study utilizes a Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model to capture both the short-term and long-term asymmetric effects of key variables, including exports (EPO), foreign direct investment (FDI), exchange rates (EXR), and inflation (INF), on economic growth (GDP). The findings from individual countries like Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, and others highlight distinct dynamics. For instance, Nigeria's reliance on past GDP performance and the mixed effects of exports and FDI suggest a need for focused economic reforms. South Africa's significant export performance and the delayed impacts of FDI indicate the importance of fostering a stable investment climate. Ghana's growth trajectory, heavily influenced by agricultural exports, emphasizes the need for policies that bolster these sectors. Meanwhile, countries like Liberia and Burkina Faso demonstrate the critical need for managing inflation and ensuring exchange rate stability to support growth.In conclusion, the NARDL model results reflect complex interrelationships among GDP, exports, FDI, exchange rates, and inflation across West African countries. Policymakers must create conducive environments for investment, manage inflation effectively, and enhance export competitiveness to foster sustainable growth. Tailored policies that consider the unique dynamics of each country will be essential for advancing economic development in the region. This comprehensive understanding of the economic landscape can guide future strategies aimed at achieving long-term stability and prosperity.