Kumasi Becomes Hub For Migration Services As IOM Expands Presence

Kumasi is strengthening its role as a hub for migration-related services as the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) expands its presence in the city.

This came to light when the Chief Migration Health Officer for Central and West Africa, Dr Samuel Beghuma Ahadi, together with his team, paid a courtesy call on the Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi, at his office.

Dr Ahadi said IOM’s expansion to Kumasi is aimed at bringing migration services closer to people in the middle and northern sectors of Ghana, including migration health screening for potential migrants and returnees, as well as training and support to aid the successful reintegration of returnees.

The team also explored opportunities for collaboration on intra-African mobility, support for truck drivers engaged in regional trade, public health, and interventions in congested market communities.

The Mayor welcomed the initiative, noting that IOM’s presence in Kumasi would give residents easier access to reliable information on international travel and migration, enabling them to make informed decisions and reducing risks associated with irregular migration.

He called for stronger collaboration between the IOM and health institutions, including the Kumasi Metropolitan and Ashanti Regional Health Directorates, to roll out joint public health interventions for the benefit of the metropolis and the region.

“Together, we can promote safe, informed and beneficial migration while strengthening public health and regional cooperation,” he said.

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