Sunyani: Madam Stella Yobat, the Second in Command at the Migration Information Centre of the Ghana Immigration Service in the Bono Region, has cautioned the youth against travelling abroad through unapproved routes. She highlighted that available statistics showed 600 migrants died on the Mediterranean between January and February 2026. Despite the dangers and intensified public education, the Bono and Bono East regions still rank high in irregular migration.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Yobat spoke to the media during the launch of the Migrant Media Action Project in Sunyani. This project is implemented by the Song-Ba Empowerment Centre, a Non-governmental Organisation. She noted that the actual death figures could be higher due to unreported cases and urged youth seeking to travel abroad to consult the centre for advice and guidance.
Madam Yobat explained that the Migration Information Centres and the Migrant Resource Centres of the International Organisation for Migration provide crucial information, counseling, and legal pathways. They also create awareness about irregular migration and aid in the successful reintegration of returnees. With offices in Sunyani and Techiman, she urged potential travelers to utilize these resources.
Mr. Kwasi Agyapong, Programme Officer of the Song-Ba Empowerment Centre, explained that the NGO focuses on empowering survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and migrant returnees. The centre promotes the dignity and safety of vulnerable populations, providing them with advocacy and skills development training.
Mr. Agyapong highlighted that the Migrant Media Action Project aims to promote safe migration options and access to reliable migration information. He emphasized that migration decisions are often influenced by inaccurate or misleading information, particularly via social media, leading to exploitation and human rights abuses.