The Role of Local Communities of Southern Ethiopia in Curbing Irregular Migration

Ethiopia has been an origin, destination and transit country numerous types of migration particularly for irregular migration. This study mainly aimed to assess the impact of integrated regional efforts to deter irregular migration in the selected zones of South Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region, Ethiopia. These zones include Wolaita, Hadiya, Kambata-Tambaro, Gurage and Siltie. The study employed purely qualitative approach through the course of stages of the evaluation process raging from data collection, analysis, discussion and interpretations. The tools used for collecting data were focus group discussions, key informant interviews and life history narratives. Secondary data were obtained through review of institutional documents and facts and figures. Findings of the study showed that different stakeholders are working with regional Labour and Social Affairs Agency to deter irregular migration. The key stakeholders were local community, educational institutions, Bureau of women and children affairs, media and religious organizations. Labour and Social Affairs Agency adopted three measures to control irregular migration: prevention, protection and prosecution. Therefore, attitudes of the community as well as leaders of religious organizations have to be reshaped by continuous public discussion and awareness creation programs.