The Informal Economy's Contribution to Côte d'Ivoire's GDP: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry

Côte d'Ivoire's economy has seen significant growth in recent years, but there is limited empirical research on the contribution of its informal sector to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This study aims to fill this gap by employing a mixed-methods approach. A mixed-methods study combining survey data with in-depth interviews was conducted in urban areas of Côte d'Ivoire. Quantitative data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed to gauge the scale of the informal sector, while qualitative insights were gathered from focus group discussions and individual interviews aimed at understanding its dynamics. The quantitative analysis revealed that the informal economy contributes approximately 40% to Côte d'Ivoire's GDP. Qualitative findings underscored the resilience and adaptability of the sector in response to economic shocks, highlighting themes such as flexibility and community support networks. This study provides a comprehensive view of the informal economy's role in Côte d'Ivoire's GDP, revealing both its significant contributions and challenges. It underscores the importance of integrating informal sectors into national development strategies. Policy makers should consider fostering an enabling environment for the growth of the informal sector, possibly through targeted interventions aimed at improving access to finance and enhancing skills training.