Almost Half of Africans Have Considered Emigrating, Afrobarometer Survey Shows

Almost Half of Africans Have Considered Emigrating, Afrobarometer Survey Shows

A growing number of Africans are considering emigration, driven largely by economic challenges and the pursuit of better opportunities abroad, according to a 2024 survey conducted by Afrobarometer across 24 countries on the continent.

On average, 47% of respondents have thought about leaving their home countries, with 27% giving the idea serious consideration. Liberia, the Gambia, Cabo Verde, and Ghana emerged as the nations with the highest rates of emigration aspirations, at 78%, 68%, 64%, and 61% respectively.

In stark contrast, Tanzania reported the lowest figures, with only 9% of respondents expressing interest in leaving.

Sharp Uptick Since 2016

Analysis of 22 countries consistently surveyed since 2016/2018 reveals a 9-percentage-point increase in emigration intentions.

Liberia and Mauritius recorded the sharpest rises, with increases of 28 and 27 percentage points, respectively.

Notable jumps were also observed in Nigeria (+21 points), Ghana (+20 points), and Cameroon (+15 points). Tanzania was the exception, reporting a decline of 5 percentage points.

Destinations of Choice

North America and Europe remain the most desirable destinations, attracting 31% and 29% of potential emigrants, respectively.

However, 22% expressed interest in relocating to other parts of Africa, reflecting growing recognition of opportunities within the continent.

The survey underscores economic drivers as the primary motivation behind emigration. Nearly half (49%) of respondents cited job opportunities as their main reason, while 29% sought to escape poverty or economic hardship.

The rising interest in emigration across Africa signals mounting economic pressures, with unemployment and income disparities at the forefront. Governments face the challenge of addressing these structural issues to retain talent and labour.