SOCIOECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF MIGRATION IN THE LAWRA MUNICIPALITY OF THE UPPER WEST REGION

Abstract

The study seeks to find out the causes of migration in the Lawra Municipality of the Upper West Region to rural and urban cities in the southern part of Ghana and the socio-economic consequences (negative and positive) on the study area. This research work employs the mixed research methodology. The study was done by drawing a sample from the population of the area for interviews. It employed questionnaires, interview guide and a focus group discussion guide to collect data from participants. The sampling process involved probability and non-probability sampling techniques. The sample of the purposive sampling technique included return migrants, in-migrants, agriculture, education officials, chiefs and elders, and opinion leaders. Probability sampling technique was used to select household heads for interrogation. The study found out that, the causes of migration was mainly due to the unfavorable rainfall pattern, coupled with the lack of employment opportunities in the area given that the major economic activity in the area is agriculture. Others are lack of social amenities and avoidance of certain cultural practices in that order. It was also established that even though migration has a negative influence on community mobilization, its positive impact on the household livelihood status emanates through remittances. It has been recommended for the creation of employment opportunities and the provision of facilities to facilitate irrigation farming in the area. This will help address the negative aspect of migration resulting from movement of the teaming youth of the Municipality.