Abstract:
Several academic researchers in Ghana have heightened the importance of
international remittances rather than the importance of internal remittances to
migrant households (Kanu&Ozurumba, 2013; Quartey, 2006). This study
therefore, examined remittances and social expenditures of migrant households in
the Ekumfi District. The study employed a cross sectional and descriptive survey
design using questionnaire and interview guide as the data collection instruments.
A sample size of 377 respondents answered questionnaires while eight key
informants were interviewed. Frequency tables, cross-tabulations and t-test
statistics were used to analyse the data. The findings revealed that migrant
households’ monthly income generated from primary occupations prior to the
receipt of remittances was less than GH 100. Also, migrant households received
more of cash remittances; usually less than GH 100 on quarterly basis through
mobile money. Again, occupation of migrant, social ties and households’ welfare
conditions influenced remittances flow to migrant households. Additionally,
remittances served as an alternate source of income for migrant households in the
Ekumfi District because it increased the expenditures of food, education and
clothing by providing additional income to finance additional spending rather than
the expenditures of health, social function, farming, trading and housing. Besides,
the study recommends that the Ekumfi District Assembly should implements
specific technical and vocational programmes to upgrade the semi-skilled and
unskilled youths to streamline better job opportunities and reflect in increased
remittances to migrant households during out-migration to urban centres.
