Authorities in the Bono Region have renewed efforts to combat irregular migration, warning of rising cases despite ongoing public education on its dangers.
Madam Stella Yobat, Second in Command at the Migration Information Centre (MIC) of the Ghana Immigration Service in the region, revealed that recent statistics show at least 600 migrants died on the Mediterranean between January and February 2026 alone. She cautioned that the actual number could be higher due to unreported cases.
Speaking during the launch of the Migrant Media Action Project (MMAct Project) in Sunyani, Madam Yobat expressed concern that the Bono and Bono East regions continue to rank among the highest in irregular migration. She urged young people to avoid unapproved travel routes and instead seek guidance from Migration Information Centres and Migrant Resource Centres.
According to her, these centres, including those in Sunyani and Techiman, provide reliable information, counselling, and legal migration pathways, as well as support for the reintegration of returnees.
The MMAct Project, implemented by the Song-Ba Empowerment Centre, aims to address misinformation that often drives risky migration decisions. Programme Officer Mr. Kwasi Agyapong noted that many migrants rely on misleading narratives, particularly from social media, exposing them to exploitation and human rights abuses.
He explained that the initiative focuses on promoting safe migration options, encouraging alternative livelihood opportunities, and strengthening access to accurate information. The organisation also works to empower vulnerable groups, including survivors of sexual and gender-based violence and migrant returnees, through advocacy and skills training.
Stakeholders at the event emphasized that tackling irregular migration requires a combination of awareness, access to credible information, and economic empowerment to reduce the vulnerability of young people seeking opportunities abroad.
