Adja King, a Ghanaian Living in New York, Speaks on the Harsh Reality of Life Abroad
Adja King, a Ghanaian based in the united states, shares a raw and honest take on life in “abrokyire” (abroad). He says living abroad is not as glamorous as people think. “Abrokyire is tough—it’s not for the weak. No matter the weather—rain, snow, or strong winds—you still have to go to work. Even when your child is sick, you have to show up,” he explains.
In an interview with Dj Nyaami on Svtv Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show He emphasizes that life overseas requires wisdom, strength, and resilience.
“The video I did with you helped many people. Some even moved to my state based on that. People came from as far as Mexico,” he added.
According to him, he didn’t come abroad to relax—he came with a purpose.
Many undocumented immigrants, he says, are doing well financially. Some have even built gas stations in Ghana, but emotionally, they are not happy.
“There’s no happiness here. I know someone who sold his house in Ghana to come abroad, and now he’s working hard to rebuild it. You can build a house in Ghana faster than staying abroad struggling.”
He talks about the dilemma undocumented people face: once they get the money, they want to go back home, but due to their status, returning becomes complicated.
“Some regret it. And honestly, women are scarce abroad.”
Adja points out how the system changes women:
“Here, women become independent. They know their rights. I dated a white woman—we shared house chores. But when I brought a Ghanaian lady here, it didn’t go well. No food, no affection. Some of them end up using sex toys, and that affects real relationships.”
He also says many Ghanaian men abroad struggle with relationships.
“Some guys prefer sending $10 to a girl in Ghana rather than dealing with women here. Even my friend pays $500 for sex, and he’s undocumented. I always say, with that kind of money, you can go to Accra and enjoy yourself.”
Adja admits that white women tend to be more supportive and less financially demanding.
“If you want to succeed abroad as a Black man, marry a white woman. They’ll help you see how the system works.” However, he warns: “If you’re bringing someone from Ghana, let them swear an oath first. Some will have kids with you and still leave.”
He reflects on his own journey.
“I’ve become rich through abrokyire, but it wasn’t easy. Someone helped me come here. I lived my dream—I even had a child born here who qualifies for benefits. I saved up and went back to Ghana. Behind the scenes, it’s not easy at all.”
Adja advises the youth to invest in farming rather than just dreaming of traveling.
“Cashew or mango farming can make you rich. I started with 10 acres and now have over 50 acres of cashew. During harvest, I hire over 30 workers. I’m one of the youngest people in my area with a massive farm.”
He concluded by saying,
“I didn’t invest in building a house first—I invested in the farm. The farm gave me the money to build. Farming has made me wealthy. If you’re a young guy with vision, go into agriculture. Abroad is good, but it’s not for everyone.”
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