Economic Growth, Energy Consumption, and Environmental Quality in Sub‑Saharan Africa: Testing the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) Hypothesis

Ebrima K. Ceesay; Matarr Njie; Emmanuel Igbinoba; Etse Yawo Dzakpa; Mohamed Ben Omar Ndiaye; Amie M. Jobe; Amadou Cham; Ebrima B. Jallow; Cherno Jallow; Lamin B. Jammeh

doi:10.55845/jos-2026-23105

Authors

Ebrima K. Ceesay University of the Gambia
Matarr Njie University of the Gambia
Emmanuel Igbinoba Independent Researcher
Etse Yawo Dzakpa African Institute for Mathematical Sciences Research and Innovation Centre
Mohamed Ben Omar Ndiaye University Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD)
Amie M. Jobe University of Verona; University of the Gambia
Amadou Cham Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Ebrima B. Jallow Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs - The Gambia
Cherno Jallow University of the Gambia
Lamin B. Jammeh University of the Gambia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55845/jos-2026-23105

Keywords:

EKC, CO₂ Emission, GDP per Capita Growth, Panel Pooled Estimation, Energy Consumption, Renewable Energy, Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

This paper empirically tests the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis for sub-Saharan Africa, using CO₂ emission as a proxy for environmental quality. The analysis employs panel pooled data for 39 countries from 1990 to 2019. We find evidence of an inverted U-shaped relationship between income and emissions, as GDP per capita has a positive effect and its square has a negative effect on CO₂ emissions, thereby supporting the EKC hypothesis.

Our results reveal a dual role for renewable energy. When CO₂ emissions are the dependent variable, renewable energy consumption significantly reduces emissions, while non-renewable energy increases them. Additionally, population size and literacy rate are found to positively affect CO₂ emissions. In contrast, when economic growth is the dependent variable, renewable energy has a positive and significant influence.

These findings indicate that expanding renewable energy production in sub-Saharan Africa offers a dual advantage, enhancing environmental quality while also contributing to stronger economic performance. By demonstrating that renewable energy reduces CO₂ emissions and supports growth, the results provide important guidance for policymakers seeking to advance sustainable development pathways that are compatible with long‑term environmental conservation across the region.

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