摘要：The purpose of this study is to examine the interplay of economic growth and employment in the reduction of poverty amongst West African Countries. Cross sectional country level data between 1991 and 2010 is used to examine the relationship existent between these variables within the West African region. The empirical result of the study supports a positive effect between economic growth and poverty reduction in West Africa. In terms of the influence of employment on poverty reduction, it can be observed that there exists a positive relationship; however, this relationship tends to be statistically insignificant. Employment-intensive growth is necessary but not sufficient within the region’s confine. That is, it is unlikely that the poor possess sufficient skills necessary to take advantage of the new employment opportunities evident within the region; thereby propelling a reduction in broad-based employment growth. In addition to this, employment does not coincide with poverty eradication because it is not in any way linked to the economic sectors that affect the poor.
