As the world marks International Migrants Day, a growing number of Africans are expressing the desire to leave their home countries in search of better opportunities. According to a recent Afrobarometer survey conducted across 24 African nations, nearly half of the respondents (47%) have considered emigrating—a sharp increase from figures recorded just a few years ago.
For 24-year-old Joseph Mensah from Ghana, the dream of a brighter future lies beyond Africa’s shores. “I love my country, but finding stable work here is almost impossible,” he says. “I’ve thought a lot about moving to Europe, where I believe I’ll have better opportunities to support my family.”
Joseph’s aspirations mirror a broader trend highlighted by the survey, which revealed that finding employment is the primary motivation for nearly half (49%) of potential migrants. Others, like Amina Jallow from the Gambia, cite economic hardship and poverty as driving factors. “The struggle to make ends meet is unending,” she explains. “Relocating could give my children a chance at a better life.”
A rising trend
The survey, part of Afrobarometer’s 2024 findings, reveals an increasing interest in migration across many African nations. Liberia tops the list, with 78% of respondents expressing a desire to emigrate, followed by the Gambia (68%), Cabo Verde (64%), and Ghana (61%).
Conversely, Tanzania stands out as the only country where emigration intentions have declined, with just 9% of citizens considering leaving. This decline highlights a unique case amidst the continent-wide surge in migration interest.
Preferred destinations
For most Africans looking to migrate, North America (31%) and Europe (29%) remain the top choices. However, a notable 22% of respondents expressed interest in moving within Africa, reflecting the growing appeal of regional opportunities.
Economic realities driving the exodus
The data paints a stark picture of the challenges fueling the desire to migrate. Many African nations continue to grapple with unemployment and economic instability, pushing citizens to seek opportunities abroad.
For families like the Kamalas in Zimbabwe, migration is seen as a lifeline. “My brother left for South Africa five years ago,” says 32-year-old Mercy Kamala. “He’s been able to send money home, helping us survive during tough times. Now, I’m considering following in his footsteps.”
As migration aspirations grow, experts urge African leaders to address the root causes of this exodus. Strengthening economic opportunities, creating jobs, and fostering regional integration are seen as key strategies to stem the tide.
Afrobarometer, a non-partisan survey research network, has been a trusted source of data on African experiences since 1999. Their latest findings underscore the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address the socio-economic challenges driving migration.
For now, as dreams of a better life beckon, many Africans remain at a crossroads, weighing the risks of leaving behind their homes against the promise of a brighter tomorrow elsewhere.
