The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations on Migration in Ghana (CCMG) has urged the government to decentralise migration governance. This proposal seeks to empower metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies (MMDAs) to manage migration-related issues within their local jurisdictions. This shift aims to address the reality that most migration activities, challenges, and opportunities occur at the community level, not solely at the national level.
Eric Boakye Peasah, National President of CCMG, stated that foreign nationals are present in communities across the country. He argued that centralising migration governance in Accra is no longer effective. The current approach overlooks the local impact and specific needs arising from migration. Empowering MMDAs would allow for more targeted and responsive interventions.
This call aligns with broader efforts to strengthen local governance and development planning in Ghana. The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) has already taken a significant step this year. It now requires every district assembly to incorporate migration into its development agenda. This policy marks the initial phase towards effective decentralisation of migration management across the country.
Mr. Boakye Peasah, speaking at the 2026 Post-International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) National Stakeholder Dialogue, emphasised the need for more than just policy directives. He stated that assemblies require information for planning, response, and support services. This highlights a critical gap in current local capacities for managing complex migration dynamics.
To bridge this information gap, the CCMG President proposed establishing a dedicated digital platform for MMDAs. This platform would serve as a central repository for migration data, policy guidance, and public education. Such a tool would enable local authorities to monitor migration trends, support migrants and returnees, and improve coordination with national institutions. This digital solution could significantly enhance the operational capabilities of local assemblies.
Abena Owusua Amponsah-Bio, Implementation Manager for the Development-oriented Migration Programme at GIZ, supported a collaborative and evidence-based approach. She noted that migration offers opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and cultural exchange. However, it also presents complex challenges requiring data-driven responses. Collaboration among various institutions is essential because no single entity can address these multifaceted issues alone.
The Ministry of the Interior, through Freda Agyei Asare, Director of the Migration Directorate, acknowledged the vital role of civil society organisations. She stressed the importance of moving beyond dialogue to implement commitments from global migration processes like the IMRF. This implementation is crucial for Ghana's strategic positioning in the global migration management ecosystem and for continuous learning.
The decentralisation of migration governance could lead to more efficient resource allocation and better integration of migrants into local communities. It could also improve the protection of migrant rights and reduce vulnerabilities. Decision-makers will need to ensure adequate funding and capacity building for MMDAs to successfully implement these new responsibilities. The success of this initiative will depend on strong inter-agency cooperation and sustained political will.