Abstract:
Research into the role of diaspora and hometown associations in the development of origin
countries is a growing phenomenon. However, few studies address the strategies these migrant
groups actually employ to mobilise collective remittances for development purposes in their
origin countries. Using a case study methodology and mixed methods, this paper examines the
typologies of collective fundraising and the strategies employed by two Ghanaian hometown
associations (the Kwahuman Association and the Kasena-Nankana Development League) in
mobilising collective remittances for development in origin communities. Analyses in this
paper are guided by the network theory and a conceptualisation of development as ‘the
reduction and elimination of poverty, inequality and unemployment within a growing
economy’. The results reveal differences in hometown associations’ collective remittance
mobilisation strategies based on their size, longevity, socio-cultural beliefs and practices of
their origin community, their transnational outlook and their collaborative abilities. The
findings have implications for widening the scope of development funding sources from
migrants.