Brain drain: A case study investigation of factors influencing and affecting Africans who live and work in the United States

Research studies show that African professionals have left the continent within the past decade in significantly greater numbers than previously noted. Many of these professionals are settling and working in the host countries and not going back to work in and develop their countries' economies. This study was an attempt to examine the factors influencing such individuals to leave their countries and subsequently to stay in the host country. What is the impact of their staying on the individuals and their families, and the impact on their fledgling economies?; The researcher conducted verbal interviews of seventeen African men and women now living in Southwestern United Sates. One subject lives in the Midwest. Results of the interviews reveals that most of the subjects left their home countries to seek opportunities for further education, and then later stayed to provide similar opportunities for their children. Many others left their respective countries due to political oppression or hostile work environment and/or stayed in the host country for fear of such oppression and unfavorable work conditions.; The term brain drain has been used to describe the mass exodus of professionals from one country to another. To curb the brain drain this study suggests that African governments should strive to curb corruption and nepotism, channel funds to the development projects they are intended for, and create more educational opportunities for their citizens. These may lead to economic expansion and increased employment opportunities.