Governance analyst Dr. Awineyesema Abiire says Ghana must improve economic opportunities and governance systems to discourage young people from seeking opportunities abroad.
Dr Abiire made the remarks during an interview on Dreamz FM’s Breakfast Today program while discussing the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa following attacks on foreign nationals.
“If this Upper East Region had its dams working properly and farmer service centers operating, we may not even remember there is another country across Africa,” he said.
The analyst argued that unemployment, weak policies and poor leadership continue to push many young Ghanaians to migrate in search of better living conditions.
He said many migrants often discover harsh realities abroad, including underemployment and exploitation.
“Some nurses and teachers go abroad and end up doing cleaning jobs and miniature jobs,” Dr Abiire said. “Others even advise their colleagues back home not to come.”
Dr Abiire stressed that improving local opportunities is the best way to reduce migration pressures rather than blaming citizens for leaving.
“Our government is not setting us up well,” he said. “But our appetite that outside is better is also a problem for us.”
The lecturer also questioned the depth of government promises to support returnees from South Africa, describing some official announcements as politically motivated rather than carefully planned.
“It looks like, let us put a statement there, let the masses praise us and forget about it,” he said.
The Ghanaian government has announced transportation allowances, reintegration packages, psychosocial support and job placement opportunities for returnees.
Dr Abiire said such interventions should be based on detailed needs assessments and long-term reintegration plans instead of broad public statements.
He also urged citizens to scrutinize political leaders based on competence, policy implementation and track records rather than political gifts or populist promises.
“Citizens should look at leaders who have built systems and contributed to national development,” Dr Abiire said.
According to him, sustainable development and job creation remain the most effective tools for reducing outward migration among Ghana’s youth.
