Good living conditions can stop African migrant flow

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has realized it the hard way that the source of migration needs to be addressed. The jolt she received in the regional polls must have been a rude awakening for her. The outcome of the elections was reason enough for her to delve deeper into the refugee problem and go beyond the open-door policy. She is now undertaking a tour of Africa — from where most migrants come. During the visit, she warned on Monday that Africa was reeling under a “brain drain”. “It is important that Africa doesn’t lose its best minds,” Merkel underlined.
It is true that there has been exodus of skilled workers from sub-Saharan Africa. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the number of sub-Saharan migrants living in developed countries could increase from 7
million in 2013 to 34 million by 2050. The figures are alarming and raise a wave of concern. If so many skilled people leave, the region will become socially and economically weak. It is, therefore, imperative that measures are taken to boost good living and working environment in the region so that it can hold the skilled workforce from migrating.
Most of the sub-Saharan regions today face instability, either due to political bankruptcy or social volatility. Terror activities are rife in some areas and some are gripped in internal conflicts.
Bringing about stability requires a mammoth effort. Africa needs a development that reaches the common man. Till now, the middle class in most of the countries in the continent has been deprived of a reasonably good living condition. Some zones lack even the basic amenities like clean drinking water and health as well as education facilities. How can you expect anyone to continue living in such deprivation?
Despite being unsure of what lies ahead, the frustrated lot leaves homes. They are so tired of their plight that they are forced to take the perilous journey which can either make or mar their future. Since 2014, more than 10,000 migrants have lost their lives in the Mediterranean, says a United Nations study. And if you survey further, you will find that majority of these migrants hailed from sub-Saharan Africa.
Merkel has hit at the root of massive migrant inflow. Now, she needs to equip the countries which give rise to migration to tackle the crisis. Funding is important. Funds should be channelized towards providing incentives to skilled workforce. The local population will never leave their place if there is stability and security. If their basic needs are met properly, the flow will stop. Development plans should be made in such a way that it improves the quality of life of the people. Job creation has to go in hand in hand with infrastructural progress.
Niger’s population has an average age of 15.2 years. With technology just a click away, these youngsters realize that their region is a laggard. It obviously prompts them to look for greener pastures. But if this technology is brought to their doorsteps, they won’t seek a foreign land.
The world donors have pledged $15 billion for Afghanistan. If they contribute even half of this for sub-Saharan’s development, migrants won’t take the Mediterranean route. The funding should not just improve the look of the towns, but the lives of people too! And it should percolate deep among the masses.