Paper short abstract:

Environmental migration is a reality in West Africa with migration patterns being affected by climate related disasters. The susceptibility of many migrant communities have been uncovered by the COVID-19 pandemic, hence the need to develop a sustainable framework for migration governance

Paper long abstract:

Displacement due to conflict, violence and disasters has continued to increase in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2018, estimated displacement due to disasters from floods, droughts and storms accounted for 2.6 million new displacements as compared to 16.8 million new displacements due to conflict and violence in Africa. The West Africa sub-region is not left out with the occurrence of high incidence of floods and drought and other climate related Incidents. This has resulted into rapid environmental degradation, loss of livelihood, loss of properties, livestock and in some cases death. Across farming communities, climate change consequences have resulted in the partial loss or complete loss of crops thus leading to food insecurity especially in areas of intensive food production. Those displaced are faced with overcrowded living conditions, limited or no social protection and limited access to basic services. These living conditions make it extremely difficult for the affected people to implement the measures put in place by government such as social distancing and isolation to reduce the Spread of COVID-19, thereby increasing the likelihood of the risk of the virus spread among the vulnerable group. This paper seeks to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting migration patterns of displaced persons and their welfare. The paper will specifically identify measures put in place to mitigate the adverse effect of climate change, promote climate change adaptation, reduce disaster risk, reduce the COVID-19 spread and identify the roles placed by both Government and Non-Governmental Organizations.