Pathways to Achieving SDGs in Africa: Investigating the Impact of Digitalization and Labor Market Productivity on Income, Employment, Poverty, and Inequality

ABSTRACT Digitalization and labor market productivity are critical for sustainable development, yet their impact on the sustainable development goals (SDGs) remains understudied, particularly in the context of sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). This study looks at how digital technology and labor market productivity might help SSA nations realize the SDGs by 2030, specifically SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 8 (decent job and economic growth), and SDG 10 (reduced inequality). Using the dynamic panel system of generalized method of moments, the analysis covers 38 SSA nations from 2000 to 2021. The analysis reveals that mobile subscriptions directly influence economic growth. Additionally, mobile and phone subscriptions have a positive impact on employment. However, insufficient internet accessibility impedes economic growth and employment. In addition, labor market productivity enhances growth and employment, while higher mobile and telephone subscriptions reduce poverty and inequality. Conversely, labor market inefficiencies exacerbate poverty rates. Based on these empirical outcomes, we provide policy implications and suggestions for further studies.