Peer review

Africa’s migration system is identified as dynamic and complex. In this chapter, we triangulate theoretical and empirical literature to present an overview of topical dimensions of migration in SSA, the methodological challenges in the study of migration in the region and the policy options for maximizing the benefits of migration for regional development. The chapter presents high levels of internal migration and urbanization of poverty, feminization of migration, refugee flows and human trafficking, the challenge of brain drain, brain gain, remittances, regional economic blocs and the debate on Africa as a migrant destination for economic emergent nations like China. Further, the chapter explores the methodological challenges in the study of migration in the region, particularly the overall dearth of migration data and the challenge of undocumented migrants, including refugees. Finally the chapter identifies policy issues and options for migration management and the leveraging of migration for Africa’s social and economic development. Key policy issues covered include cheaper and more remittances, diaspora incorporation in home country development, political reforms around constitutional governance, the importance of regional integration in addressing the hindrances to inter-African migration and the need for investments in data systems and research for a nuanced analyses and understanding of the complex migration flows in the region.

Text in English