Journal of
Geography and Regional Planning

  • Abbreviation: J. Geogr. Reg. Plann.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 2070-1845
  • DOI: 10.5897/JGRP
  • Start Year: 2008
  • Published Articles: 398

Article in Press

Determinants and household livelihood implications of migration in rural communities in the Lawra Municipality, Ghana.

Bangura Francis1 and Isaac Agyemang2

  •  Received: 30 May 2020
  •  Accepted: 02 March 2021
Migration, a phenomenon that robs many communities off their indigenes, is common among communities in the northern part of Ghana. However, its impact on the individual and society is two-folds (both desirable and unpleasant outcomes). This study assesses the implications of migration in the Lawra Municipality of the Upper West Region. The New Economics Theory of Migration (NETM) explains the causes and effects of migration in the municipality. The study employs mix research technique. It considered a sample from the study population for interviews. The sampling process involved probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 21), quantitative data were analyzed while employing narratives and quotations in the analysis of qualitative field data. The study revealed the major causes of migration from the study area as unfavorable rainfall pattern (55.3%), coupled with the lack of employment opportunities (28%), while other factors constituted the remaining 16.7%. It was also established that regardless of the adverse impacts of migration on community mobilization, its positive impact on the household livelihood status emanates from remittances. It has been recommended for the creation of employment opportunities and the provision of facilities to facilitate irrigation farming in the area to help address the negative aspects of migration resulting from movement of the teaming youth from the Municipality.

Keywords: Migration, causes, implications, livelihoods, household, rural communities,