Ghanaian Marine Engineer Shares Global Experience on SVTV Africa
Ghanaian marine engineer Justice appeared on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle GH show with DJ Nyaami, sharing his inspiring journey working aboard vessels that have taken him across the globe. His work has taken him to countries like Honduras, Côte d’Ivoire, Qatar, the USA, Mexico, and the Bahamas, all with just two vessels. He is currently on vacation in Takoradi, Ghana.
After completing Senior High School, Justice initially considered joining the military. However, a soldier advised him to attend the Regional Maritime University, where he eventually enrolled, though he was initially unsure about what he wanted to do.
He advised Ghanaian parents to encourage their children to learn a skill or trade during vacation, especially if the child shows interest in a particular talent. In his case, he went through maritime training, pursued internships at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, and eventually obtained key certifications such as the Seaman’s Book, International Passport, and Firefighting Certificate from the Ghana Maritime Authority.
Finding a job in the maritime sector wasn’t easy. He mentioned that opportunities like Black Star Line were no longer available, and job seekers must now apply online or through school-to-company recruitment processes. His first opportunity came through a referral, landing him a spot on a Ghanaian vessel operating in the Sankofa Field and Sankofa Trades.
Justice recalled how tough his early days were. He vomited the first time he went deep sea, but after about a week, he adjusted. Working on a ship is demanding and often lonely, as you’re away from home for long periods. Initially, he worked two months on and two months off, but later, some assignments lasted 8–10 months.
His vessel currently trades between Takoradi and Tema. He mentioned that some people use these shipping jobs as a route to illegally stay in the U.S., but he is focused on building his career. “I know a lot of boys who stayed behind when they got to America, but I’m not like that,” he said. There are currently four Ghanaians on his vessel.
Justice admitted that his rank is still low, and he needs to take additional courses to rise through the ranks. He emphasized that working at sea requires mental strength, as it’s not an easy job. Some workers smoke heavily, and there are seniors who refuse to teach juniors because they see them as competition, especially the Black crew members. “Sometimes they act unfriendly in the engine room but become nice once they step out,” he said.
He also shared a troubling experience with Mexican police, who once questioned him about drugs while he was at the beach. “In Mexico’s market, everyone was trying to sell cigarettes to me and my friend Wizler,” he added.
Justice also traveled to Texas, where he noticed there were hardly any Black people in administrative roles. However, in the Bahamas, he felt very welcome. “Almost everyone was Black, and I blended well with their culture,” he said. In contrast, he felt isolated in other countries.
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