Aaron, a Ghanaian currently based in Ghent, Belgium, has been living in the country for the past 10 years. Before settling in Europe, he had an eventful journey that took him from Ghana to Saudi Arabia and finally to Belgium.
He began his working life at the Sekondi Fishing Harbour. In his youth, Aaron was also passionate about football, playing for Dolphins FC in the second division. However, realizing that football wasn’t yielding any real results, he decided to focus on acquiring skills. While at the harbour, he learned mechanical engineering, specifically how to repair fishing boats, from a technician who later passed away.
Aaron’s journey abroad began when a colleague from the harbour introduced him to an opportunity in Saudi Arabia. Without informing his parents, he traveled there and only called them after arriving. They were initially frightened, given the country’s strict reputation. Aaron spent two years in Saudi Arabia working as a helper and forklift operator, where he also learned how to repair car bumpers and operate machines from an Indian colleague.
After saving some money, Aaron returned to Ghana. He later lost his passport while trying to make connections for further travel. Eventually, he secured a new one, got a visa to the Netherlands, and from there, moved to Belgium with the help of a friend.
When he first arrived in Belgium, life was quiet. He stayed indoors, watched YouTube, and observed life from his window. After a while, he sought employment. At one point, the police were searching for him because he had temporarily used someone else’s documents—but the situation was resolved. Compared to his struggles in Ghana and Saudi Arabia, he says life in Europe has been more manageable.
Within less than two years of living in Belgium, Aaron obtained his residency papers. He came with a clear plan: to secure his documents, help a few family members, and eventually return to Ghana to live. He noted that many Ghanaians who come abroad without a plan end up lost. “There are three types of people abroad,” Aaron says, “those whose parents brought them here and don’t know suffering, those who came themselves and understand the struggle, and those who pretend they are doing better than they are.”
Aaron also reflected on the financial advantages in Belgium. He now works as a welder and a container truck driver. “The benefits here are many—rent subsidies, vacation benefits, and if you manage your money well, you can save up to €10,000 in a year,” he explained. However, as a married man without children, he pays more taxes. He notes that those with children receive tax breaks.
Despite the comfort in Europe, Aaron has concerns about raising children abroad. He believes kids abroad often lose focus due to excessive freedom and opportunities. “At 18, they find a girlfriend and forget about their parents,” he said. His dream is to raise his future children in Ghana, instilling discipline before bringing them to Europe.
Aaron has witnessed fellow Ghanaians abroad build businesses like filling stations and buy luxury cars in Ghana. “That doesn’t mean Ghana is a bad place,” he said. “I often visit, and if I get just €600, I’m happy to fly back.”
Aaron’s story is a mix of hard lessons, resilience, and a strong belief in planning and purpose when migrating.
Watch The Video Below:
About The Author
