Collective Remittance Mobilisation Strategies of Ghanaian Hometown Associations in the UK

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.