Seidu, a Ghanaian who has been living in the United States for the past three years, shared his journey in an interview with DJ Nyaami on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show.
He recounted that his travels began when he first moved to Algeria as a footballer. While there, his brother introduced him to a trade in Jolomi, which he studied for two years before returning to Ghana. Seidu later pursued football trials in Angola but came back home after a short stay. In 2018, he traveled to Saudi Arabia for work, but when COVID-19 struck, he joined a company that allowed him vacation time. During that period, he worked hard, managed to build his own house, and still nurtured the dream of moving to America.
After three years, he returned to Ghana but struggled financially. Attempts to travel to Belgium ended with deportation back to Ghana. Not giving up, he pursued another route through Brazil. To finance this, he sold his two-bedroom house on a half plot for GHC 85,000. His journey through South America was challenging—after his money ran out, he sought help from his brother-in-law in the U.S. By 2022, he was determined to make it through, describing it as a “do or die” journey.
Seidu recalled the terrifying jungle crossings, harsh conditions, and the constant threat of deportation in Tapachula, Mexico. At one point, he paid $200 to avoid being sent back. Eventually, smugglers transported him through Tijuana, from where he crossed the desert into the U.S. By then, he had spent nearly $10,000 on the journey.
“The first day I entered America was unforgettable. I was so happy,” Seidu said. He explained that because of COVID-era processes, his documents were handled within 24 hours, allowing him to settle quickly in the state he desired. Fortunately, he found a good host in the U.S., which he admitted is not always the case for many migrants.
Seidu emphasized that though life in America is not easy, with strategic planning—such as finding roommates to share bills—one can save money and build a future. “Almost three years ago, I sold my house before coming here. Today, I have built a new two-bedroom flat and even started an additional storey. I’ve achieved a lot,” he noted.
Despite his success, he expressed concern about deportations under “Mr. T,” saying many of his friends had been sent back. Seidu clarified that he has no intention of staying permanently in the U.S., as his wife, children, and siblings are in Ghana. His goal is to make money and eventually return home.
“I don’t regret coming through Mexico. If you get the right connections, even if it means selling your property, you can make your money back,” he advised.
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