This paper investigates the formation of convergence clubs and examines the drivers of growth convergence in Africa by accounting for individual heterogenous effects and establishing transitional paths. We particularly employ the sophisticated log t test to identify underlying convergence clubs and use LSDVC as a benchmark model for analysing the drivers of convergence. We also apply the System Generalized method of moments (GMM) model for sensitivity purposes. Our results reveal four core convergence clubs; seemingly characterised by the measures of institutional stability with distinct transitional paths. We consequently highlight the importance of initial conditions, human capital and institutions in the formation of convergence clubs. Thus, the paper provides insights into the adoption of differentiated development policies consistent with the specific conditions of African countries with the integration agenda driven by accelerated levels of human capital development and technological progress.

中文翻译：

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非洲的融合触发器：来自融合俱乐部和小组模型的证据

本文研究了融合俱乐部的形成，并通过考虑个体异质效应和建立过渡路径来研究非洲增长融合的驱动因素。我们特别使用复杂的 log t测试以确定潜在的融合俱乐部，并使用 LSDVC 作为分析融合驱动因素的基准模型。我们还应用系统广义矩法 (GMM) 模型来提高灵敏度。我们的结果揭示了四个核心融合俱乐部；似乎以具有不同过渡路径的制度稳定性措施为特征。因此，我们强调初始条件、人力资本和制度在融合俱乐部的形成中的重要性。因此，本文提供了对采用符合非洲国家具体情况的差异化发展政策的见解，以及由人力资本发展和技术进步推动的一体化议程。