Spatial and Contextual Analysis of Post-Independence Regional Migration in Ghana

Abstract

Regional migration is a common phenomenon in developing countries, where push-pull factors of migration favor rural-urban flows. The purpose of this study was to produce a spatial and contextual analysis of regional migration in Ghana following its independence from Britain in 1957. Using census data from the Ghana Statistical Survey, the demographic variables of gender, age, and education levels were quantitatively analyzed. This analysis was done to provide insight into Ghana’s regional migration dynamic between 1960 and 2010. Multiple linear regression models were developed to explore potential reasons for migration. Results of the analysis demonstrate that people migrate from small towns to urban centers over the 50-year period. Regression analysis illustrated that gender and age are pivotal factors that influence regional migration in Ghana. The study also shows that distance does not discourage migration in Ghana. Results of this study can provide insights that could be beneficial to future regional and national planning