Labour Migration, Cash Remittances, and Household Food Security in the Ghana-Qatar Corridor

While the relationship between migration and development has been extensively studied, the connection between migration and food security remains underexplored, particularly in the South-South context. This paper examines the linkages between international migration, cash remittances, and household food security in the Ghana–Qatar migration corridor. Quantitative methods, including multinomial regression analysis, were used to assess household food insecurity using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) and the Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS). Drawing on a 2023 survey of 200 migrant-sending households in two urban locations in Ghana, Accra and Kasoa, the study investigates household characteristics, the association between remittances and food security, and coping strategies for managing food insecurity. The findings show that these households are predominantly low-income, and more than 80% of migrant households experience some degree of food insecurity. Remittance receipt is strongly associated with improved food access and higher dietary diversity. Food insecurity varies by household structure and income, with female-centred households particularly vulnerable. In response, households adopt coping strategies such as reducing meal sizes and consuming less-preferred foods. The paper argues that migration and food security are closely interconnected. While food insecurity may contribute to migration aspirations, the survey data primarily demonstrate that remittances are associated with improved household food security outcomes. Remittances help alleviate, but do not eliminate, household food insecurity. These findings highlight the need for integrated policy approaches linking migration governance and food security interventions.