Essays on the economics of conflict and human capital in central Africa

This thesis employs a quasi-experimental econometric methodology to investigate the immediate, long-term, and intergenerational microeconomic impacts of violent conflict-including terrorism-on human capital outcomes such as health, nutrition, and education. It examines the primary channels through which the adverse effects of violence are transmitted to children born in the aftermath of civil war. Furthermore, the research evaluates the effectiveness of cash transfer programs in fragile and conflict-affected settings (FCV) in reducing poverty by enhancing agricultural productivity and improving nutrition outcomes. The study provides evidence of the persistent negative impacts of maternal exposure to violent conflict on the health and educational outcomes of their children, even decades after the most intense episodes of violence. Additionally, it underscores the potential of cash transfer programs in FCV contexts to boost agricultural investments and nutrition, ultimately contributing to poverty alleviation.