MIGNEX: Migration & Development Dynamics in Kombolcha, Ethiopia
September 2022
Samuel Hall interviewed youth in Kombolcha, Ethiopia as part of our research with MIGNEX [Aligning Migration Management and the Migration–Development Nexus]; a collaborative research effort to tackle the challenges of global migration with a long-term vision for better outcomes.
This case study brief co-authored by Samuel Hall team explores 'Migration & Development Dynamics in Kombolcha, Ethiopia’ where industrial growth and international investment in textile and bottling factories in the Kombulcha Industrial Park has led to rapid urbanisation. Yet, there are limited job opportunities in the region.
While the industrial growth has provided new jobs, wages are low and conditions poor, young adults are optimistic about the future in Kombolcha, and hopeful for improvements due to several infrastructure and development projects across the area. Migration abroad for livelihood opportunities is common, though most would prefer to stay in Ethiopia.