Abstract
This paper analyses the challenges faced by a number of resource dependent countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to provide recommendations on how to design a set of policies to encourage productive employment growth. It examines the policy framework relating to extractive industry in a number of African, Asian and American countries to identify productive uses of the revenues for inclusive growth in other sectors of the economy, diversification away from the extractive industries through industrial and sectoral policies, as well as investment in social protection and infrastructure. The paper underlines the importance of strong institutions for governance, transparency, effective policy design and implementation. It advocates for a comprehensive approach to development relying on social protection, labour legislation and investment in social infrastructure (healthcare and education), along with cooperation with social partners and civil society through social dialogue.