Resilience, Solidarity, and Remittances: Driving Economic Growth and Development in Africa.

Abstract

This paper captures the primary remittance function in establishing economic resilience and migrant solidarity in Africa. Remittances, as a source of fiscal inflow, have played a crucial role in poverty alleviation, enhancing domestic welfare, and contributing to economic growth. In this article, the nexus between remittances, migrant solidarity groups, and economic development is analysed by applying a literature review approach, as well as theories of vulnerability and resilience, and social capital theory. Migrants form solidarity networks in host countries and offer support systems through financial, food, and material assistance, not only to their families in the host country but also to those in their home countries. In the face of increased environmental stress, such as droughts, floods, and economic uncertainty, these networks act as informal insurance, buffering risks and enabling adaptive capacity at a transboundary level. The article examines how migrant solidarity networks facilitate the reversal of challenges faced by migrants in South Africa and foster resilience in their countries of origin, using examples from Zimbabwean, Cameroonian, and Pakistani migrants. It concludes by discussing policy suggestions on how migrant solidarity networks can be integrated into national and regional climate change adaptation strategies, with a focus on fostering trans-border resilience to global socio-economic and environmental crises, as well as other development initiatives.