Researchers from the Centre for Migration Studies at the University of Ghana are at the forefront of a five-year project focused on tackling forced displacement in Anglophone West Africa.
Supported by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), the project is geared towards strengthening knowledge, evidence use, and leadership to address the complex challenges faced by displaced populations in the region.
The IDRC is providing funding for the project
Led by the esteemed IDRC Research Chair on forced displacement, Prof. Mary Boatemaa Setrana, who also serves as the Director of the Centre for Migration Studies, the research team, comprised of Prof. Joseph Teye, Dr. Thomas Yeboah, Ms. Stella Effah, Mr. Kwesi Obeng, Prof. Delali Badasu, Dr. Leander Kandilige, and Dr. Johnson Appiah Kubi, will employ interdisciplinary approaches to comprehend the root causes of forced displacement and assess the impact on affected communities.
With a particular emphasis on gender-transformative strategies, the project aims to generate comprehensive data that will inform policies and interventions to support displaced populations.
The project, which covers countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, The Gambia, and Sierra Leone, has already made significant progress since its inception. Activities conducted during the initial phase included conducting desk reviews, engaging with stakeholders, and visiting displaced communities to gain firsthand insights into their needs and challenges. This was followed by a project launch and inception workshop held at the Institute of African Studies.
Key stakeholders, including government institutions, international organisations, and civil society groups, have been actively involved in the project. Collaborations with organisations such as the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) have been established to explore potential partnerships and leverage resources for impactful interventions.
Looking ahead, the project aims to continue its research activities, capacity-building initiatives, and advocacy efforts to address the multifaceted issues surrounding forced displacement in West Africa.
According to the Director of the Centre and Project Lead, Prof. Setrana, the project is expected to foster collaboration and share knowledge. She added that the University of Ghana-led project seeks to make a tangible difference in the lives of displaced populations and contribute to long-term solutions in the region.
Prof. Mary Boatemaa Setrana, IDRC Research Chair on forced displacement and Director of the Centre for Migration Studies
The Centre is one of 12 universities across 3 continents leading research on forced displacement under funding from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), which champions and funds research and innovation within and alongside developing regions to drive global change. As part of Canada’s foreign affairs and development efforts, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) invests in high-quality research in developing countries, shares knowledge with researchers and policymakers for greater uptake and use, and mobilises our global alliances to build a more sustainable and inclusive world.
