Rural Income Distribution in Senegal: Changes and Indicators

Abstract

This paper examines the degree of rural income inequality in Senegal and the determinants of the inequalities observed. Two data sets are analyzed. The first contains time-series data on aggregate rural income by region. It is found that in years of abundant agricultural production, income disparities between regions are reduced. The second data set relates to household income in three villages. Despite the general impression that rural incomes in Africa are quite evenly distributed, the village data indicates major inequalities. The inequalities arise from differences in land areas farmed and in yields obtained.