Gender-Based Occupational Segregation and Economic Development in Liberia: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Gender-based occupational segregation remains one of the most persistent barriers to inclusive economic development in developing countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Although women's participation in education and the labour force has increased over recent decades, they continue to be disproportionately concentrated in low-income, informal, and less productive occupations. This study examines the relationship between occupational gender segregation and economic development in Liberia while drawing comparative insights from the broader Sub-Saharan African region. Using secondary data obtained from the World Bank, International Labour Organization (ILO), Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS), and other international databases covering the period 2000–2024, the study employs descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression techniques to evaluate the determinants and economic consequences of occupational segregation. Guided by Human Capital Theory, Gender Segregation Theory, Structural Transformation Theory, and the Gender and Development (GAD) framework, the analysis investigates the effects of occupational segregation on economic growth, labour productivity, and wages. The findings indicate that occupational segregation remains deeply embedded in Liberia's labour market and is associated with lower productivity and constrained economic performance. Although several estimated relationships are statistically weak, the direction of the coefficients supports existing theoretical and empirical evidence. The study concludes that reducing occupational segregation requires integrated policies that combine educational investment with labour market reforms, institutional strengthening, gender-responsive employment policies, and improved access to productive resources. Such reforms are essential for promoting inclusive economic growth and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.