Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – A significant proportion of Gambians are contemplating emigration as a means to escape economic hardship and secure better job opportunities, according to a new Afrobarometer survey released on International Migrants Day. The study reveals that nearly seven in ten Gambians (68%) have considered leaving the country, a sharp rise from 56% in 2018.

The findings indicate that the share of Gambians who have given serious thought to emigration has almost doubled over six years, climbing from 29% in 2018 to 53% in 2024. Young adults aged 18-35, part-time workers, the unemployed, and individuals with post-secondary education are the demographics most inclined to consider emigrating.

Key Drivers of Migration
The survey highlights economic hardship and poverty (30%) and the search for work opportunities (28%) as the top reasons fueling migration aspirations. North America and Europe emerge as the most preferred destinations, attracting 30% and 28% of prospective migrants, respectively.

Challenges and Opportunities
The rising interest in emigration underscores pressing issues like “brain drain” and irregular migration. However, the economic contributions of remittances from Gambians abroad continue to play a vital role in supporting families and communities back home.

Survey Methodology
The Afrobarometer team, led by the Center for Research and Policy Development, conducted face-to-face interviews with a nationally representative sample of 1,200 Gambians between April and May 2024. The results carry a margin of error of ±3 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

As The Gambia grapples with economic challenges, this survey serves as a wake-up call for policymakers to address the root causes driving migration and to create opportunities that will keep citizens invested in their homeland.