Experiences of Unaccompanied Child Migrant Workers from West African Countries Living in Ghana

Abstract

While independent migration among children is common in West Africa, it has not received much attention in research and policy. Guided by the ecological systems and coping theories, the study explored the experiences of unaccompanied child migrant workers from selected West African countries who reside in Ghana. The objectives of the study were to explore (a) challenges encountered by unaccompanied child migrant workers and (b) coping strategies adopted by unaccompanied child migrant workers. A qualitative research design was adopted, and utilizing both purposive and snowball sampling techniques, 41 children were recruited as participants for the study. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted to gather data, which were analyzed thematically. The findings indicated that unaccompanied child migrant workers encountered challenges related to unstable and low daily income, lack of decent accommodation, labor exploitation and loss of income, as well as health issues. Furthermore, evidence showed that the unaccompanied child migrants used both problem-focused (assistance from social networks and support from migrant mutual aid groups) and emotion-focused (inner resources and distraction/avoidance) coping strategies to deal with the challenges they faced. Based on the findings of the study, conclusions and implications are discussed for policy and practice.