A new survey reveals a sharp rise in the number of Ghanaians considering emigration, with economic challenges being the primary driving force behind the trend.
According to the latest Afrobarometer data, 61% of respondents have thought about leaving Ghana, a 20-percentage-point increase from 41% in 2017.
The most common reasons for considering emigration include the search for better work opportunities (55%) and a desire to escape economic hardship (33%).
The survey also highlights that the most educated, young people, and the unemployed are the most likely to contemplate leaving.
Among those with post-secondary education, 78% have considered emigrating, while 72% of 18- to 35-year-olds share the same thoughts.
North America and Europe remain the top destinations, with 55% of potential emigrants choosing North America and 24% opting for Europe.
This surge in emigration aspirations places Ghana sixth among ECOWAS countries in terms of emigration rates.