Kofi De Traveller: Life as a Former U.S. Soldier, Business Plans in Ghana, and the Impact of ICE Raids
Kofi De Traveller, a former American soldier based in Atlanta, Georgia, joined SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show with DJ Nyaami to discuss life in the U.S., his military experience, future business ventures in Ghana, and the ongoing ICE raids affecting immigrants.
Kofi expressed concern over recent ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants. Initially, authorities claimed they were only deporting criminals, but now they are arresting anyone without legal documents.
“I went to church yesterday, and many seats were empty. People are scared because raids can happen anywhere,” he said. However, he noted that he has not seen any Ghanaians being arrested or deported yet.
He also commented on the broader implications of former President Trump’s decision to cancel USAID programs, emphasizing that it was a wake-up call for Africans to become self-reliant instead of depending on foreign aid.
Kofi sees significant business opportunities in Ghana and is actively working to establish himself there.
He grew up in Akwatia, Buadua, and Kade, where he noticed a demand for alcohol, especially at funerals. Inspired by this, he plans to open a liquor store. Additionally, he has started a building project and is working on establishing a guest house.
“I once stayed in a poorly maintained guest house and still paid GHC 400 per night. If I build a modern one, it will thrive, especially since many people travel for funerals in Ghana,” he explained.
Farming is another area Kofi is considering. He believes agriculture is a stable and profitable investment, given the increasing number of people venturing into it.
Kofi served in the U.S. Army for six years before leaving in 2022 due to a knee injury. His time in the military provided valuable benefits, including financial support for his education, disability compensation, and a VA loan that enabled him to purchase a house.
“I filed for VA disability, and they assessed whether my body was still in the same condition as when I joined. I received a 100% rating, meaning I get a monthly payment for my injuries for life,” he shared.
Currently, he works in logistics, splitting his time between three days in the office and three days working from home—a schedule he finds very comfortable.
“The Army gave me the opportunity to buy my house. Because I served, I could take a VA loan, which I’ll pay off in 30 years.”
Kofi also emphasized the importance of checking one’s health before joining the military, as physical fitness plays a crucial role.
Even after leaving the Army, Kofi remains committed to continuous learning. He is set to graduate with his second degree in March and has obtained multiple certifications in logistics and supply chain management.
“I don’t want to miss out on job opportunities because of a lack of qualifications, so I always keep learning. Sometimes, I take online courses from universities and certification programs.”
He also highlighted the GI Bill, a military benefit that allows veterans and their children to attend university for free.
While Kofi is focused on building his businesses in Ghana, he plans to leave his wife and children in the U.S when he marries.
“When I marry and have kids, they will stay in America while I return to Ghana to focus on my business ventures,” he said.
Currently, he is in a relationship with a woman in Europe and plans to marry her soon.
Kofi advised young people interested in joining the Army to consider other career options as well.
“America offers a lot of job opportunities beyond the military. It’s not the only way to succeed,” he noted.
He also encouraged people to explore remote work opportunities.
“Some people in Ghana are working remotely for U.S. companies and getting paid well. If you know anyone who can connect me, let me know.”
Kofi De Traveller’s journey reflects the importance of resilience, strategic planning, and continuous learning. From serving in the U.S. Army to exploring business opportunities in Ghana, he remains focused on securing a stable future for himself and his family.
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