A regional multiplier approach to estimating the impact of cash transfers: The case of cash aid in rural Malawi

Davies, Simon and Davey, James (2007): A regional multiplier approach to estimating the impact of cash transfers: The case of cash aid in rural Malawi.

Abstract

This paper analyses the impact on the local economy of an emergency cash transfer programme in rural Malawi. The results are of interest given the growing use of cash transfers as development aid as well as the increasing popularity of such transfers as a form of social protection across Sub-Saharan Africa. Using a form of social accounting matrix, we find that there are widespread benefits for regional economy as a whole (with multiplier estimates of 2.02 to 2.45) and for certain groups in particular. Small farmers and small businesses gain particular advantage as this is where poorer households’ purchases are focused; education and health also benefit. Such payments can also help to support the regional economy during the most “lean” periods of the year.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Institution: University of Bath; Concern Worldwide (Malawi)
• Language: English
• Keywords: Rural Economic Development; Cash Transfers; Income Multiplier; Poverty; Malawi; Africa
• Subjects: D - Microeconomics > D1 - Household Behavior and Family Economics > D19 - Other; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O1 - Economic Development > O15 - Human Resources ; Human Development ; Income Distribution ; Migration; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O2 - Development Planning and Policy > O22 - Project Analysis; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O1 - Economic Development > O18 - Urban, Rural, Regional, and Transportation Analysis ; Housing ; Infrastructure

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