Cultural interplay shaping the well-being of Ghanaian migrants in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Ghanaian migrants in Japan, who make up the second-largest population of African migrants in the country, may have faced heightened racial prejudice and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, impacting their well-being. This study explored cultural factors shaping the well-being of Ghanaians living in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic through a qualitative study using the socioecological model. From June 2022 to August 2022, 18 in-depth interviews and 2 focus group discussions were conducted among Ghanaian migrants in Japan. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed, and an inductive thematic approach was used to analyze the data. At the individual level, the internalized face mask culture, financial constraints, reluctance to access mental healthcare services, and hesitancy toward COVID-19 vaccine played major roles in the well-being of Ghanaian migrants. Adherence to social distancing and coping using religious and social circles influenced their well-being at the interpersonal level. At the community and societal levels, important influences on well-being were language barriers, discrimination and COVID-19-related stigma, and trust in Japan's healthcare system. In conclusion, while Ghanaian migrants in Japan faced challenges during the pandemic, affecting them physically and psychologically, they were able to cope through the religious and social ties from Ghana that they maintained.