Renowned lawyer and academic, Tsatsu Tsikata, has emphasized the significant economic opportunities that can be derived from the phenomenon of brain drain, urging Ghana to capitalize on the contributions of its diaspora rather than lament the loss of talent.
Speaking at the 14th Leadership Dialogue organized by the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ), Mr. Tsikata presented a perspective that sees the mass exodus of Ghanaians seeking greener pastures abroad as an economic asset that can be harnessed for national development.
“In my mind, yes, there is a brain drain, and some people are desperate to leave the country, and this is not the first time people have left the country in droves. It has happened before,” Tsikata remarked.
He further explained that while many professional bodies have expressed concern over the loss of skilled personnel, the focus should also be on the potential benefits that the diaspora can bring to the economy.
Mr. Tsikata highlighted the significant role of remittances from Ghanaians abroad, pointing out that the financial inflows from the diaspora often surpass the revenues generated from the country’s natural resources.
“When you look at the amount of remittances that are sent by Ghanaians abroad, in terms of foreign exchange, it usually exceeds any of these natural resources that we export,” he stated, underscoring the economic value that the diaspora brings to Ghana.
According to Mr. Tsikata, the nation should shift its mindset to view the diaspora as a strategic economic asset. He suggested that the funds sent home by Ghanaians abroad could be more effectively utilized to support the country’s development.
“Let’s look at the fact that we can harness the resource value that comes from their being there,” he proposed, encouraging a more proactive approach to engaging the diaspora community.
Rather than focusing solely on the challenges associated with brain drain, Tsikata believes Ghana should explore ways to leverage the economic potential of its citizens abroad.
He emphasized that the relationship between Ghanaians in the diaspora and their homeland is one that holds immense value and should be cultivated to benefit the nation.
Mr. Tsikata called for a broader perspective on the issue of brain drain, urging stakeholders to recognize and harness the economic contributions of Ghanaians abroad as a key component of the country’s growth strategy.