Africa’s Migrants: Key to Growth, Yet Restricted

Migration has long been seen as a driver of development in Africa, but the reality is far more complex. While remittances from migrants have undoubtedly helped sustain families and communities, the continent still struggles to leverage this phenomenon for widespread economic growth. Three major obstacles continue to impede the full potential of migration as a tool for development.

The Power of Remittances

Migration within and outside Africa generates billions in remittances annually, dwarfing foreign aid contributions. These funds pay for essential services like healthcare, education, and housing, making them a lifeline for families. For instance, in Senegal, remittances accounted for over 10% of GDP in 2017, far surpassing overseas development assistance, which contributed just over 4%. In some African nations, remittances constitute over 20% of GDP.

Policy documents like the African Union’s Agenda 2063 acknowledge the importance of migration. The agenda envisions labor mobility as a cornerstone of sustainable development, promoting regional integration and economic growth. However, translating these visions into actionable policies has proven elusive.

Historical and Social Barriers

One of the biggest challenges lies in the tension between states and migrant communities. History is rife with examples of mass expulsions fueled by economic and political crises. In 1983, Nigeria expelled over two million Ghanaians during the infamous “Ghana Must Go” campaign, a decision rooted in economic instability and rising nationalism. Similar expulsions occurred in Ghana (1954, 1969) and Côte d’Ivoire (1958).

Even in contemporary times, diplomatic rifts—such as those between Ghana and Nigeria over alleged mistreatment of citizens—highlight the ongoing friction. Such incidents create a hostile environment for migrants and undermine the potential benefits of labor mobility.

A Flawed Approach: Europe’s Influence

European Union policies have also shaped migration narratives in Africa, often with a focus on curbing migration rather than fostering its developmental potential. The EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, for example, prioritizes reducing irregular migration to Europe by funding development projects in African countries. This approach assumes that better job opportunities at home will deter people from migrating, a theory that doesn’t align with the complexities of human mobility.

The most recent Samoa Agreement recognizes migration as a potential driver of prosperity and innovation but still emphasizes return and reintegration measures. This focus has influenced some African governments to adopt similar policies, perpetuating a narrow view of migration that prioritizes containment over opportunity.

The Policy Disconnect

Our research reveals a significant mismatch between social attitudes and policy frameworks on migration. While families and communities often view migration as a pathway to better opportunities, governments frequently approach it with ambivalence or hostility. This disconnect hampers the ability to create an environment where migration can truly drive development.

To move forward, African policymakers must embrace the diversity of perspectives on migration and commit to inclusive governance. This means fostering regional cooperation, reducing xenophobia, and creating policies that balance economic needs with human rights. Only then can Africa fully harness the transformative power of migration to drive sustainable growth.

Bridging the Gap

Migration has the potential to reshape Africa’s future, but only if its challenges are addressed head-on. Remittances can fuel development, but they are not a substitute for coherent policies that protect migrants and promote mobility. By breaking down historical prejudices, rethinking European influence, and aligning policy with the aspirations of its people, Africa can unlock the immense opportunities that migration offers. The journey won’t be easy, but the rewards could be transformative for the continent.