Motivations for Migration : From Kenya to Japan

Abstract

Migration and the resulting racial and ethnic diversity are among some of the most controversial issues in today’s modern society. Even though global migration has been largely steady over the last century, its significance has increased over time. Looking at the African case, previous research shows that the pursuit of better opportunities due to unemployment rates and demographic pressures have traditionally been the driving force behind African migration to other countries. The purpose of this study is to find out what motivates Kenyans to move to Japan. To answer that question, the conceptual framework of the push and pull theory was used. Data for this study was collected using a qualitative research method (a combination of a questionnaire and interviews) from 24 Kenyans in Japan. Out of the 24, 5 were interviewed. The questionnaire and interviews were based on eight push factors and pull factors to identify the reasons that motivate Kenyans to move to Japan. This study found that push factors such as unemployment and poverty had little to do with the decision of the participants in moving to Japan. Instead, the pull factors provided an insight into some of the factors that influenced the articipants to move to Japan. Such included better career prospects. Additionally, it was also found that social factors such as gender identity and self discovery had an influence on some of the participants’ decisions to move. Recognizing the participants’ motivations to move to Japan can assist in understanding the social, economic and political reasons that influence migration from Kenya and may help both Kenya and Japan in their migration and development policies.