Features
Ghanaian migrants in Finland and social relationships
● Ghanaian migrants in Finland at an event
I have recently come across some studies about migrants and social relationships. Such studies, done in other European countries, revealed interesting things about the social lives or relationships of the migrants, and I started thinking about what happens with Ghanaian migrants in Finland.
So, today, I write about Ghanaian migrants in Finland and social relationships. It is not totally based on any academic study; rather, what I write here is based on my personal observations and the opinions of some Ghanaian migrants in Finland, although I also rely a bit on my own research about African/Ghanaian migrants here.
The nature/types of social relationships of migrants
According to researchers on migration, a perspective of migrants’ commitments builds on insights into global flows while providing a focus on place, human agency, meaning making, attachments, and life strategising.
Sets of migrant networks ranging across kinship, friendship and workmates in Ghana (country of origin) and in Finland give Ghanaian migrants the chance to interact with myriad groups of people, networks and situations.
Social networks of family, friends, migrants associations, etc., have become important points for providing information and education about healthy lifestyles, social relations, and improving wellbeing.
What I wrote some time ago about the social lives of aging Ghanaian migrants is true for even younger ones too. They all strive to keep social bonds. There is a form of reasoning in which the meaning of the social world is objectified through family (kinship), friendship, and other ties.
Family bonds
A key contribution of the family, based on the kinship system in the various groups in Ghana, is the sense of belonging derived from the family bonds the Ghanaian migrants have both in Ghana and here in Finland.
Kinship and friendship ties in both societies of origin and settlement are important since these network connections constitute a form of social capital that people can draw upon for various reasons and benefits—including employment, solidarity and sense of belonging.
Friendship networks
Ghanaian migrants enter into friendships with fellow migrants and others in Finland. Sometimes, the networks of friendship ties can become even stronger than family ties.
Like family bonds, friendship ties in both societies of origin and settlement, and Ghanaian migrants can draw upon this as a form of social capital.
Civic participation
Ghanaian migrants in Finland engage in various activities as part of civic participation. Such activities include volunteering for local organisations and agencies, or as members of clubs or Ghanaian associations.
As I mentioned previously, migrant associations are increasingly focusing on social lives and how to help improve the wellbeing of people such as migrants.
Generally, such associations seek to serve as a platform to combat loneliness and as a way to protect the mental health and physical wellbeing of older migrants, especially the senior citizens, if you choose to call them so.
Loneliness
One of the key issues most Ghanaian migrants talk about when they meet is how to avoid or at least reduce loneliness and boredom.
In a small study I did about African migrants (including some Ghanaian migrants) I found that some of them engaged in gambling practices in order to avoid becoming bored at home.
Many migrants indulged in practices just to avoid loneliness and boredom. For example, some migrants engage in gambling and value the practice as a means of avoiding boredom, marginalisation and other problems in life.
The way forward
Many Ghanaian migrants find various ways to keep relationships alive in order to prevent loneliness and boredom.
Public agencies, migrant associations and other non-governmental organisations in Finland are advocating the good health and wellbeing of people, especially migrants.
Many migrant groups or associations are using social media platforms and virtual meetings to educate their members and others about the importance of keeping positive social lives for a healthy life. Thank you!
By Perpetual Crentsil
Email: perpetualcrentstil@yahoo.com
I experienced something on Monday, June 15, that really frustrated me. I had to go to the ministries but I could not get up early that day so I decided to pick a taxi and get to the Tuba Junction.
When I got there I realised that Traffic had built up from the Toll Booth towards Accra. After a while I got a Taxi and it was when we got to a certain spot on the road, that I realised why there was a traffic jam.
There is a short stretch of the road where each time it rains heavily, loose material run down the hill onto the road, blocking one side of the road. Vehicles from Kasoa to Accra are then forced to move into one of the lanes of those going towards Kasoa from Accra.
The two lane road from Accra to Kasoa becomes a single carriage way. That was the reason for the traffic jam from the toll booth onwards.
This has been a perineal problem and yet, no permanent solution has been found till date. The area falls under Ga South and even though, a new MCE has taken over, the technocrats are still there and so the problem is not new to them.
There is therefore no excuse for the inability of the Ga South Metropolitan Assembly to resolving the problem on that stretch of the road. Apart from the Ga South Metropolitan Assembly, another institution that must be held accountable is the Ghana Highways Authority.
The Highways Authority cannot say they are unaware of this issue. The fact that the problem falls within the area of responsibility of the Ga South Assembly, does not relieve the Ghana Highways Authority, of their responsibility of ensuring that our highways are maintained in a motorable state at all times.
A collaboration between the Ghana Highways Authority and The Ga South Municipal Assembly is required for a permanent resolution of the problem.
There was another traffic jam at a place called Atala about 250 metres to the traffic light at Old Barrier as a result of an issue similar to the one close to the toll booth, that I talked about earlier.
When we got to Weija junction, we encountered another traffic jam. The cause of this jam was a bad condition of road about 80 metres from the traffic light at Ga South Hospital heading towards Accra.
Due to the bad nature at that section of the road, vehicles are compelled to slow down resulting in a traffic jam stretching all the way to Weija Junction.
I started wondering if that short stretch of road cannot be sorted on one Sunday when traffic is usually light. When we got to the traffic light at Odorkor, there was another issue.
When the traffic light shows green, there is a slow down because there is a big pothole or should I say manhole in the outer lane, right at the traffic light. Vehicles in the outer lane are compelled to swerve into the second lane thereby causing a traffic to slow down and resulting in a traffic jam.
It is very important to take into account the effect of traffic jam on the national economy. If we are able to assess the value of the loss to the economy of the nation, I believe the issue of traffic jam will be prioritised.
Imagine persons working at various Government Organisations like Registrar General’s Department, Ghana Ports and Habours Authority, Ghana Revenue Authority, CEPS etc. and lives at Kasoa and whose job is to collect revenue for the state and is held up in traffic.
Just imagine the effect their lateness to work will have on the economy if you consider the delays in say clearing of goods at the port and as a result traders cannot sell their goods for government to generate the required taxes.
Let us deal with the traffic jams on our streets to promote economic growth. God bless.
By Laud Kissi-Mensah
Mortality is an inherent aspect of life, a universal experience that has sparked philosophical, theological, and scientific inquiry throughout human history.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of mortality, acknowledging the complexity of the topic and the diverse perspectives surrounding it.
The biological imperative
From a biological standpoint, death is a natural part of the life cycle. It serves as a mechanism for the evolution of species, allowing for the passing on of genetic material and the adaptation to environmental changes.
Evolutionary perspective: Death allows for the recycling of resources, promoting the survival and adaptation of species.
Life span and senescence: Cellular aging and the limitations of biological systems contribute to mortality.
Philosophical and existential perspectives
Existentialism: Emphasises individual freedom and responsibility in the face of mortality.
Meaning and purpose: The finite nature of life can prompt individuals to seek meaning and purpose.
The human condition: Mortality is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, shaping our perceptions and values.
Cultural and spiritual views
Afterlife and spirituality: Many cultures and religions believe in an afterlife or spiritual continuation.
Rituals and mourning: Cultural practices surrounding death reflect the significance of mortality in human experience.
Legacy and remembrance: The impact of one’s life can transcend mortality.
Ethical considerations
End-of-life care: Ethical debates surround issues like euthanasia, assisted dying, and palliative care.
Quality of life: Balancing the value of life with the quality of life is a complex ethical issue.
Resource allocation: Societal decisions about healthcare and resource distribution involve considerations of mortality.
Psychological impact
Grief and loss: The experience of mortality can evoke profound emotional responses.
Fear and anxiety: The awareness of mortality can lead to existential anxiety.
Appreciation and gratitude: Recognising mortality can foster appreciation for life.
Conclusion
Mortality is a multifaceted aspect of human existence, influencing how we live, relate, and find meaning. Understanding and acknowledging mortality can prompt deeper reflections on life and our place in the world.
By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson
News1 week agoNFS, AACMA raise GH¢300K for new fire tender
- News6 days ago
FSD Africa, others launch Green Project Preparation Facility to unlock investment in climate infrastructure in Ghana
- News6 days ago
Merck Foundation holds 13th Africa Asia Luminary with 12 First Ladies to advance healthcare capacity across Africa and Asia
