Nkoranza, Ghana, 13 March 2025 – As part of efforts to enhance the service delivery of the Migration Information Centres (MICs) operated by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), IOM Ghana has upgraded the Nkoranza MIC and donated essential equipment to support awareness-raising, data management, and the facilitation of regular migration pathways. This intervention is part of IOM’s broader commitment to strengthening migration governance and ensure access to accurate and timely migration information for all.

Since 2022, IOM Ghana has supported the voluntary return of 2,837 migrants, the majority of which are from the Bono region, specifically Nkoranza and its environs. Due to these alarming numbers and Nkoranza becoming a hot spot for out-migration, the MIC comes in as a timely intervention for awareness raising and access to accurate and timely migration information.

 Reading a statement on behalf of The Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, DCOI Kenneth Arhinful, Regional Commander, Bono East, commended the initiative, noting: “MICs play a vital role in equipping our citizens with knowledge about migration opportunities and challenges. This facelift will enhance the capacity of the Nkoranza MIC, enabling it to better serve the public and provide essential guidance to migrants. We appreciate the collaboration with IOM and partners in making this a reality.”

Migration Information Centres (MICs) play a crucial role in providing migrants and potential travelers with reliable guidance on regular migration pathways and opportunities. The need for this intervention was identified following a comprehensive needs assessment jointly conducted in November 2024 across four MICs—Kintampo, Kumasi, Techiman, and Nkoranza by IOM and GIS. The assessment highlighted critical gaps, particularly in outreach capabilities, data management and advisory services. Among the key recommendations was the need for improved facilities for Nkoranza and modernized equipment for all to enhance data management and expand outreach efforts.

Speaking on the development on behalf of the Chief of Mission for IOM Ghana, Mr. Eric Akomanyi, National Project Officer, stated: “As Ghana continues to address migration challenges and opportunities, investments in MICs remain crucial in promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration. The success of the Nkoranza MIC upgrade sets the stage for similar improvements in other centres, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to effective migration governance enabling people to move in an authorized manner, and dignified migration for all.”

Following the needs assessment, efforts were made to mobilize resources for the necessary enhancements and equipment including computers, mobile devices, public address systems, and signage— which has been handed over to GIS and will improve outreach efforts. 

From the perspective of those working directly in the centre, the Head of the Nkoranza MIC, ACI Christian Akpai, expressed gratitude for the transformation: “This upgrade has brought a new level of efficiency to our work. With improved infrastructure and new equipment, we can now reach more people and provide even better migration advisory services. We are excited about the possibilities this presents for both our staff and the community.”

By investing in MICs, IOM continues to support Ghana’s efforts to facilitate safe migration and combat misinformation about irregular migration. The improvements at the Nkoranza MIC marks an important milestone in facilitating regular migration pathways. This initiative underscores the importance of sustained collaboration between IOM and GIS in improving migration management in Ghana.

For more information, kindly contact Mr. Eric Akomanyi, National Project Officer, IOM Ghana by email: eakomanyi@iom.int