Abstract:
This thesis examined the “BONABOTO” and “Aduamoaman” internal
migrants‟ associations in Ghana. The main objective was to examine the
associations‟ development process, organisation and persistence. Situated
within the mixed method approach, the study utilised purposive and
convenient sampling techniques. A total of 120 respondents participated in the
survey while 52 key informants were interviewed. The quantitative data was
analysed using SPSS (version 21), while qualitative was done manually. The
results showed that more males (56%) than females (44%) constitute the
membership of the two associations and members were mostly within the age
brackets of 30-39 (BONABOTO) and 60-69 (Aduamoaman). There were more
literates and formal sector employees in the BONABOTO than in the
Aduamoaman. While the majority migrated for education or employment,
some moved because of their families and social networks. The associations
grew out of informal migrant networks based on common origin, and
sustained by interests. The associations are organized based on laid down rules
and guidelines coded into constitutions, which attract sanctions when
breached. The associations perform the functions of social control, integration
and contributors to social development, but are however faced with challenges
of waning membership and financial commitment, elitism and clientelism,
which derail their activities and intended positive impacts. The study
recommends that continuous education for members and frequent interaction
should be encouraged in order to maximise the benefits of the associations to
members, origin areas and host communities.
