An Assessment of the Impact of COVID-19 Responses on MSMEs in the Informal Sector: Evidence from Commonwealth Countries in Africa

Abstract

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to severe economic disruption, with the informal sector, employing nearly 86 per cent of Africans, being particularly vulnerable. This report summarises current policy responses and measures to provide support for the informal sector. It proposes a simple COVID-19 Response for Informal Sector (CRIS) Index that combines information on four indicators (breadth, access, cover and adequacy) for each policy area. Finally, it recommends measures that are needed to support recovery for informal enterprises and workers.