Migrant remittances and household food security in the Ghana-Qatar migration corridor

Abstract

Labour migration and remittances have become central to household survival strategies across West Africa, yet their role in improving food security remains poorly understood. Drawing on a 2023 household survey of 200 migrant-sending households in Accra and Kasoa, this paper examines how migration to Qatar and remittance inflows influence food access, consumption patterns, and household wellbeing among urban Ghanaian households. The findings show that these households are predominantly low-income and that more than 80% of migrant households experience some degree of food insecurity. However, regular remittance receipts significantly reduce the likelihood of severe food deprivation. Remittances are primarily used to purchase food and meet daily consumption needs, thereby stabilizing household access to essential items. Nevertheless, female-headed and low-income households remain more vulnerable to food shortages despite these inflows. These findings highlight the need for integrated policy approaches that link migration governance and food security interventions.