Are you one of those people who have made the bold decision to move to Ghana? If you are one of those brave souls, I want to help you on your way. There are helpful and practical tips for diasporans moving to Ghana that will make your journey both smooth and fulfilling. Following these tips will reduce the hassle of moving to a new country and make your journey much more pleasant.
Relocating to a new location is always a big decision, as it comes with its unique set of challenges. Even though Ghana is a beautiful and culturally rich country that offers great potential for both personal and professional growth, you’ll need to keep these challenges in mind.
You need to plan properly and prepare for mixed possibilities in order to make the transition successful. This blog will provide you with 10 pieces of advice to pave an unhindered path to Ghana. Let’s dive in.
1. Understand the Culture and Embrace It
Perhaps the most unique thing about Ghana is its culture. From music to dance, Ghana is rich in heritage and history. Moving to Ghana will mean preparing to be immersed in this vibrant way of life. There is no being in Ghana without embracing Ghanaian culture.
The people in Ghana are warm and welcoming, and family plays a central role in daily life. Cultural etiquette is also a must-know when adapting to Ghana’s way of life.
Check out this separate blog on Cultural Etiquette in Ghana to learn more about this.
By learning the customs, languages, and values, you’ll ease into your new environment. This understanding will help you build stronger relationships and feel more at home when you arrive.
2. Learn the Local Languages
A part of culture is language, so it makes sense that the next thing to help diasporans settle well in Ghana is learning a basic local language. While English is the official language, Ghana has over 80 different languages spoken across the country. Depending on where you settle, it might be helpful to learn a local language, such as Twi, Ga, or Ewe.
Whether it’s “ete sen?” (which means “hello”) or “meda wo ase” (which means “thank you”), even a little knowledge of a local language can go a long way in helping you connect with people, make friends, and navigate daily life.
3. Prepare Financially for Your Move
Another key tip for diasporans moving to Ghana is to make sure you’re financially prepared. Even though Ghana is a wonderful country, it can be financially challenging if you do not plan properly.
Before you relocate, ensure you have sufficient savings for at least the first few months. You’ll need funds for housing, transportation, food, and other living expenses. Additionally, it’s important to have a means of generating income.
Many diasporans choose to start businesses that end up doing very well. Research good business ideas in Ghana and consider starting a new venture. Alternatively, you could offer your expertise to one of Ghana’s booming industries if you decide to get a job.
It’s also a good idea to set up a bank account in Ghana and familiarize yourself with its local banking system. There are international banks operating in Ghana; however, it might be better to use a local bank for everyday transactions.
4. Get Your Housing Sorted Before You Arrive
Securing housing in Ghana is another must do before moving there. Whether you go for an urban lifestyle of you choose one of the best villages in Ghana, finding a comfortable place to live is very important.
While you can find housing options online, it’s always advisable to visit the property first or have a trusted friend or family member check it out for you. You can also use a reputable local realtor to help you on your quest.
Depending on where you plan to settle—Accra, Kumasi, or another region—prices and availability can vary significantly. Be sure to have a clear understanding of rental agreements and the local real estate market before signing any lease.
5. Familiarize Yourself with the Healthcare System
You will need to stay healthy in order to do well in Ghana for years to come. As a result, healthcare is a key consideration for anyone moving to Ghana. While there are good hospitals and clinics, especially in major cities like Accra, it’s important to know the healthcare services available in your area. If you have specific medical needs, research nearby healthcare facilities, doctors and pharmacies. Getting health insurance to cover any emergencies or medical expenses during your stay is also an important consideration to keep in mind.
Another common trend seen among diasporans moving to Ghana is utilizing Traditional Herbal Remedies to maintain their health. You can research herbal hospitals or get in touch with people who can provide you with the herbs that will enhance your health.
6. Understand the Cost of Living
Ghana is known for its affordable cost of living, but this doesn’t take away your responsibility to assess your options and make the best decisions possible. The cost of living in Ghana greatly depends on the lifestyle you choose.
An urban setting will be much more expensive compared to settling in a rural area. While rural areas tend to have lower prices for food, housing, and utilities, they are also limited in some areas, like access to schools and hospitals.
Regardless of your choice, research the cost of food, housing, and utilities in the area you plan to settle in. This will help you transition smoothly into your new life.
7. Set Up Your Utilities
Staying connected is an essential tip for diasporans moving to Ghana. Before your move, research utilities in your area and inquire about setting them up. Ghana’s electricity and water supply can be very inconsistent, so either plan to dig a borehole and consider solar options or adapt to possible outages.
Many people use prepaid meters for electricity in Ghana. This option allows you to buy credit to top up your meter when you need to. Internet services are also widely available, with options like mobile data to broadband services. You must ensure you have access to reliable utilities to make your life easier once you settle in and stay connected to your family and friends.
8. Stay Safe and Be Aware of Local Laws
An important consideration for diasporans moving to Ghana is the safety of the country. Safety is always a top priority for anyone moving to a new country. The good news is that Ghana is generally considered a safe place. However, it’s still very important for diasporans to familiarize themselves with local laws and customs.
Pay attention to road safety regulations, as traffic in cities like Accra can be chaotic. Also, be aware of common scams and take the necessary steps to avoid them. It’s always a good idea to stay informed through local news and engage with diaspora groups in Ghana to get the necessary information to ensure you are safe for years to come.
9. Network with Other Diasporans and Locals
There is a vibrant community of diasporans in Ghana waiting to welcome you into the country. One of the first things you must do is get connected with these people. This is best done before you move to the country, as they provide helpful tips even before your big move.
There are many online communities, social events, and local groups where you can meet others who share similar experiences. Networking is a great way to get advice, make friends and discover opportunities. Ghanaians are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so you’ll likely find it easy to make connections.
10. Embrace the Lifestyle and Enjoy the Journey
Finally, one of the most important tips for Diasporans moving to Ghana is to embrace the lifestyle and enjoy the experience. From culture to food, and everything in between, embrace the new environment your have chosen.
Moving to Ghana can be both exciting and overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that it’s a journey. Take time to explore the country, experience its rich culture, enjoy the beautiful landscapes, and learn from its history. Whether you’re visiting the Wli Waterfalls, sampling traditional dishes like jollof rice, or enjoying local music, there’s always something new to discover.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Ghana as a Diasporan is a great opportunity to re-establish the bonds with your ancestral lands. It’s also a way to be a part of a growing economy with endless potential. What will make your transition even more fulfilling are these tips I’ve shared with you.
These helpful pieces of advice will help you to prepare for the move, settle in comfortably and enjoy everything beautiful Ghana has to offer you. From learning the local language to getting familiar with the healthcare system, these tips for diasporans moving to Ghana will help make your experience smoother.
The key to a successful move is preparation and having an open mind. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it, and take time to connect with your new community. Welcome home!
