The Effects of Internal Migration on Poverty Reduction in Ghana

Abstract

In recent times, the relationship between internal migrations on poverty reduction is a matter of discussion amongst policy makers and researchers. This study examines internal migration which acts as a route out of poverty in areas where conservative poverty reduction policies have failed by drawing on empirical findings on the civil movement in Ghana. It also examines how internal migration lead to rural economic development. A proportionate sample size of 660 used for the migrants and their families. Purposive sampling technique was used to collect the data. Snowball sampling used for the selection of the population (migrants). Data collected from six regions, and thirty-eight districts in Ghana, using questionnaires and interviews. The data was analysed through descriptive statistic. In all, 660 questionnaires and interview with 40 items on each questionnaire prepared and given out. Out of the sample size of 560, only 480 of the questionnaire were actually retrieved representing 85.71%. The internal migration has a positive effects on poverty reduction for households in Ghana bringing about the provision of good drinking water, electricity extension, sanitation facilities, improved income, health insurance registration improved, better nutrition, saving, and investment opportunities, amongst others to the migrants, their families, and communities. The study recommended policies such as (welfare, equity, anti-poverty, efficiency and empowerment), theoretical, and practical interventions to be implemented to maximise the effect of internal migration on poverty reduction in Ghana.