Revisiting the green growth puzzle in Africa: asymmetric effects of ICT, renewable energy and financial development under electricity constraints

Purpose This study aims to examine the dynamic and asymmetric relationships between information and communication technology (ICT) diffusion, renewable energy consumption, financial development, electricity access and green economic growth in 40 African countries over the period 2000–2019. Design/methodology/approach Using both symmetric and nonlinear panel ARDL estimators (PMG and NARDL), the analysis explores the complex interactions among these variables and incorporates an interaction term between ICT and electricity access to capture the moderating role of social infrastructure. Findings The results indicate that ICT diffusion and renewable energy consumption significantly enhance green growth in the long run, while financial development has a negative and nonlinear effect, reflecting structural inefficiencies in African financial systems. Electricity access emerges as both, a direct driver of green growth and a moderator that strengthens the positive effect of ICT diffusion. Research limitations/implications The analysis is limited to 40 African countries over 2000–2019, and data constraints may affect the generalizability of the results. Practical implications The findings guide policymakers to prioritize ICT infrastructure, renewable energy investment and financial reforms to foster sustainable growth. Social implications Improved electricity access and digital inclusion can reduce inequality and ensure broader participation in the green economy. Originality/value This study contributes to green growth theory by integrating technological, financial and infrastructural dimensions, while also addressing the social implications of infrastructure access. It further provides actionable policy recommendations to promote digital inclusion, renewable energy investment and financial reforms for sustainable development in Africa.