The COVID-19 pandemic underscores the critical need for detailed, timely information on its evolving economic impacts, particularly for Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where data availability and lack of generalizable nowcasting methodologies limit efforts for coordinated policy responses. This paper presents a suite of high frequency and granular country-level indicator tools that can be used to nowcast GDP and track changes in economic activity for countries in SSA. We make two main contributions: (1) demonstration of the predictive power of alternative data variables such as Google search trends and mobile payments, and (2) implementation of two types of modelling methodologies, machine learning and parametric factor models, that have flexibility to incorporate mixed-frequency data variables. We present nowcast results for 2019Q4 and 2020Q1 GDP for Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, and Ghana, and argue that our factor model methodology can be generalized to nowcast and forecast GDP for other SSA countries with limited data availability and shorter timeframes.

The COVID-19 crisis has had a tremendous economic impact for all countries. Yet, assessing the full impact of the crisis has been frequently hampered by the delayed publication of official GDP statistics in several emerging market and developing economies. This paper outlines a machine-learning framework that helps track economic activity in real time for these economies. As illustrative examples, the framework is applied to selected sub-Saharan African economies. The framework is able to provide timely information on economic activity more swiftly than official statistics.

This book covers computational statistics-based approaches for Artificial Intelligence. The aim of this book is to provide comprehensive coverage of the fundamentals through the applications of the different kinds of mathematical modelling and statistical techniques and describing their applications in different Artificial Intelligence systems. The primary users of this book will include researchers, academicians, postgraduate students, and specialists in the areas of data science, mathematical modelling, and Artificial Intelligence. It will also serve as a valuable resource for many others in the fields of electrical, computer, and optical engineering. The key features of this book are: Presents development of several real-world problem applications and experimental research in the field of computational statistics and mathematical modelling for Artificial Intelligence Examines the evolution of fundamental research into industrialized research and the transformation of applied investigation into real-time applications Examines the applications involving analytical and statistical solutions, and provides foundational and advanced concepts for beginners and industry professionals Provides a dynamic perspective to the concept of computational statistics for analysis of data and applications in intelligent systems with an objective of ensuring sustainability issues for ease of different stakeholders in various fields Integrates recent methodologies and challenges by employing mathematical modeling and statistical techniques for Artificial Intelligence

Among municipalities in developing nations, systemic issues such as corruption, mismanagement, and limited accountability plague local governance, impeding development efforts and hindering effective service delivery. This perpetual cycle of failure undermines the aspirations outlined in municipal plans, erodes public trust, and perpetuates socio-economic disparities. Despite recognizing these challenges, tangible solutions remain elusive, leaving communities trapped in a cycle of underdevelopment and frustration. Exploring Effective Municipal Planning and Implementation offers a comprehensive exploration of these pressing issues, and consolidates expertise and insights of academics and practitioners. Through rigorous analysis and innovative approaches, this book dissects the root causes of municipal failures, and identifies practical mechanisms for improvement. Delving into municipal planning, budgeting, and governance, this book equips readers with the knowledge and tools needed to drive meaningful change in local governance practices. This book focuses on transforming struggling municipalities into entities of effective governance and sustainable development. Harness the collective wisdom of experts from around the globe with this book, and discover the hope you have been seeking for your community to break free from cycle of municipal hardship.