Effect of information and communication technologies on life expectancy and under-five mortality in WAEMU countries

Increased life expectancy and reduced infant mortality indicate that the societies concerned are generally progressing towards sustainable development. This study therefore examines the effects of ICT, measured by internet coverage rates and mobile and fixed-line telephone penetration rates, on life expectancy and under-five mortality within the WAEMU region. Our analysis, based on secondary data covering the period from 2000 to 2023, thus makes a significant contribution to knowledge in this area. Empirical estimation was performed using the Driscoll-Kraay standard error method to simultaneously correct for cross-sectional dependence, heteroscedasticity, and autocorrelation in the data panel. In parallel, the use of the two-step least squares (IV-2SLS) method with instrumental variables allows for the correction of potential endogeneity biases. Analyses demonstrate that the development of communication infrastructure (Internet, mobile and fixed telephony) significantly improves life expectancy at birth and significantly reduces under-five mortality within the WAEMU zone. At the same time, foreign direct investment, GDP per capita, education, and trade openness are emerging as major determinants that improve life expectancy and reduce under-five mortality. In terms of implications, WAEMU authorities should encourage telecommunications operators, through public-private partnerships (PPP), to extend broadband networks to remote areas to address the lack of healthcare infrastructure in these regions. Furthermore, tax breaks on end-user devices and data services are needed to facilitate access to health information for low-income households.