Which is following is a cause of under-development in West Africa

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which option is a cause of underdevelopment in West Africa. So we need a factor that holds back economic growth, not one that helps it.

Step 2: Explain the concept Underdevelopment is usually linked to factors such as:

• Low capital formation (low savings and investment)
• Rapid population growth that outpaces economic growth
• Poor infrastructure
• Political instability and corruption
• Over-dependence on primary products
• Low technology and low skills

Step 3: Examine each option

• A. Availability of manpower: A large labour force is normally an advantage when it is trained and employed. It is not a cause of underdevelopment in itself.
• B. Increasing population: When population grows faster than output, it strains resources, schools, hospitals, housing and jobs. Per capita income falls, savings fall, and unemployment rises. This is a recognised cause of underdevelopment in many West African countries.
• C. High rate of capital formation: High capital formation means more investment in machinery, factories and infrastructure. This promotes development. The opposite (low capital formation) would be a cause of underdevelopment.
• D. Large size of market places: Large markets encourage trade and production, so this supports development.

Step 4: Answer Option B, increasing population, is the only option that works against development.

Exam tip: In "cause of underdevelopment" questions, watch for words that signal a positive factor, such as high capital formation, availability, and large market. These are usually distractors. Look for the negative factor, such as rapid population growth, low capital, or corruption.