Exploring the Issues of Migration, Livelihood Assets, and Livelihood Strategies in Rural Households: Evidence from Wa West District

Abstract

This research analyses the interplay between migration patterns, livelihood assets, and strategies employed by rural households in the Wa West District of Northern Ghana. While migration dynamics and livelihood strategies in rural settings have been explored in various contexts, there remains a gap in understanding the specific dynamics at play in the Wa West District. This study aims to address this gap by employing a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors driving migration decisions and livelihood strategies in this particular region. The quantitative analysis provided findings on the structure and magnitude of relationships, highlighting, the critical role of economic factors in migration decisions, particularly among young males. Complementarily, qualitative insights illustrated the personal and communal narratives that underpin statistical trends, such as the significance of social assets and adaptive livelihood strategies like artisanal work and local trading, in shaping migration choices. The New Economics of Labour Migration and the Push-Pull Theory guided the study, which indicates that migration dynamics in Wa West District highlight the economically driven migration of young males primarily to Southern Ghana. This emphasizes the role of remittances in maintaining economic and social ties. It also underlines the impact of livelihood assets and strategies on migration decisions, reflecting the adaptability of rural households to socio-economic changes. The findings challenge conventional narratives by demonstrating the limited influence of traditional farming practices on migration decisions, suggesting a significant shift towards non-agricultural livelihoods among rural households. The study further reveals that the socio-economic landscape in the Wa West District is undergoing significant transformations, characterized by economic diversification, notably through the rise of non-agricultural employment opportunities and, the emergence of local industries and services. Based on these insights, it is recommended that policy interventions focus on expanding non-agricultural employment opportunities and supporting community programs that enhance adaptive livelihood strategies. Furthermore, efforts should be made to improve connectivity and access to information that can empower rural households with informed choices about migration.