IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL PRACTICE (IJRCP )

E-ISSN 2579-0501
P-ISSN 2695-219X
VOL. 10 NO. 2 2025
DOI: 10.56201/ijrcp.vol.10.no2.2025.pg35.50

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Widowhood and Migration among the People of Ghana: Insights from the Biblical Perspectives

Patience Naa Lamiokor Essilfie, Eric Sefa Boye

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Abstract

The study investigated the intricate relationship between widowhood and migration among Ghanaian women, particularly examining the impacts on socio-economic status and resilience or coping mechanisms. The study employed a qualitative research approach and data were collected through focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews from 30 participants. Drawing from the biblical narrative of Ruth and Naomi, the study found that widowhood results in significant socio-economic instability for most widows, irrespective of their previous financial standing. It also highlighted that financial necessity, family ties, and community support networks often influence migration decisions. Furthermore, the study underscored the crucial role of family and community networks, including churches and NGOs, in providing emotional and financial support to widows. The authors suggested the need for a longitudinal study to be conducted to reach out to widows in rural and marginalized communities for a more comprehensive understanding of their experiences.

keywords:

widowhood, widows, Migration, Resilience, Ruth and Naomi.

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