Moving to Ghana from Europe or the USA can be a significant adjustment, both in terms of lifestyle and culture. Here are some aspects of the reality of moving to Ghana to consider:
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Ghana is generally lower than in Europe or the USA, which can be an advantage. However, it’s important to research and budget for costs such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and education. Please don’t be fooled into thinking and always converting your money against the dollar the Euro or Pound. You will never adjust. As you will always think everything is affordable but soon you will realise that you are living and spending crazy.
- Climate: Ghana has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather throughout the year. This can take some time to get used to, especially if you are accustomed to a cooler climate. Prolong exposure to heat and humidity needs careful adjustment. Rushing around like a bee can be productive but you will find yourself getting tired. Also the days start early and will seem to end early as it always gets dusk from 6pm. There are no barmy late summer time evenings where its light till 10pm.
- Culture: Ghana has a unique culture that is different from what you will be used to understanding that people with status who who or elders command and air of formality and respect. There is no calling an elder by their first name casually or just saying “alright mate, or just hi“ It’s always good to formally greet. Sounds crazy but it’s the way. It’s like going to Japan and not greeting by doing a slight bow its the custom right!. It’s also important to be also open-minded and willing to learn about and adapt to Ghanaian customs and practices. You will learn a lot that will help you get by.
- Infrastructure: Infrastructure in Ghana will not be as organised in some things as what you are used to. Such as WiFi access points, availability of free recreational areas to relax in such as parks, regular transport like buses and trains with timetables. You will have to make sure you have your own timetable if not you will be waiting around and be at the mercy of that Tro Tro not going till its full. Also other issues such as power outages, water shortages, and road condition need to be noted. It’s no joke when you ship your sports coupe and then take a wrong turn and find the road does not exist then your stuck. Now remember there is no AA road side assistance to call and the call handler will reassure you we know where you are or person will be with you in 45mins. Nope this is Ghana it’s on you to make sure you know someone who knows someone who can help you organise the pick up for your car or you are pushing it home.
- Healthcare: Healthcare in Ghana may not be as advanced as what you are used to in Europe or the USA. It’s important to research healthcare options and consider obtaining health insurance that covers medical treatment in Ghana. Remember in Ghana there is no free healthcare service and everything has to be paid for. From the medicines you need to even at times the bandages your my require for a dressing. The best option is if secure employment most employees will provide a healthcare plan. If not you should find a suitable health insurance. Also note the further you are from a major city the more scarce the healthcare options due to the lack of large government funded hospitals in rural areas.
- Employment: Finding employment in Ghana can be challenging, especially if you do not have specialized skills or qualifications. You may need to consider starting your own business or exploring remote work options. Get a job or means to make regular income, yes you have your dreams of setting up a business that gives back to people but remember you are thinking like someone who has lived outside Ghana. You have to create something that all Ghanaians will want to interact with or buy not just diaspora and those on holiday. If not you will be sitting in your empty fusion upon fusion restaurant asking your self why the only thing you are able to sell is jolloff rice.
- Education: Education in Ghana is different from Europe or the USA. Yes you can study at an international school pay the fees to get your kids an international Gcse or GED. If not its the general schools who teach from the Ghana educational curriculum. Remember it’s a country with it’s own systems so people being educated in Ghana are not stupid they are very smart but they are being educated for their country. So you have to have the same mind set as the child being taught maths in a Ghana school is thinking of going onto du further maths at a top Ghanaian university and go and work at the multinational company in Ghana. Whilst you may be thinking you want your child to go to University at Howard University or the Kings Collage London and work as a doctor for the NHS or become the CEO of iHOP . Already you would have failed to integrate. There are a variety of educational options available, but it’s important to research and find the best fit for you and your family.
Ultimately, moving to Ghana from Europe or the USA can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful research, planning, and adjustment. It’s important to have a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in order to make a successful transition. Happy researching
Author: Nana Asante Igdam
Nana Asante Igdam (aka Nana AI) is a prolific writer and editor who exists to write engaging and informative content. Their output is enhanced by using several large language models that reference the viewGhana database
