Despite having weak health systems, an informal economy and no social distancing, West African countries handled the health catastrophe relatively better than developed countries. Furthermore, West African countries are consumption-driven economies that are heavily reliant on aid and assistance from their former colonizers. The social fabric in West Africa remains a ticking bomb whenever crises occur between conflicting ethnic groups fighting for power. The political landscape is pretty spoiled, as states are weak, and there is a deep divide between African societies and their political systems. The pandemic has further aggravated the turmoil of West Africa as international organizations cut back on their aid.

Source: The North Africa Journal September 10, 2020 21:00 UTC