Ghanaian in the U.S. Military Shares His Inspiring Journey from Koforidua to Washington State
Iddi Mohammed, a Ghanaian currently living in Washington State, USA, recently shared his remarkable journey on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide Show with DJ Nyaami.
Iddi, who originally hails from Koforidua, Ghana, revealed that his journey abroad began over two decades ago after winning the U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery. “I wasn’t really passionate about traveling,” he said. “I was studying at Koforidua Polytechnic when someone encouraged me to try the lottery. I did it for fun—and to my surprise, I won. My family supported me, and I moved to the U.S.”
Before settling in Washington State, Iddi lived in Texas and later in Germany, where he spent six years. Upon arriving in the U.S., he quickly obtained his Social Security Number and began pursuing education. “Someone advised me to join the military because they would pay for my education, allow me to travel the world, and provide good benefits,” he explained.
Iddi decided to enlist in the U.S. Army, choosing a career in aviation. He initially signed a four-year contract and later joined as a reserve (part-time) soldier to combine work with schooling. Although he briefly explored law enforcement, he found military life more fulfilling.
Having served for 18 years, Iddi plans to retire in 2027 and return to Koforidua to restart life with the experience he has gained abroad. “I have two beautiful children, aged 7 and 5. Aside from attending civilian schools, I’ve completed numerous military training programs and I’m currently pursuing my second master’s degree—with the military covering my tuition,” he shared.
Reflecting on his journey, Iddi emphasized that success abroad does not necessarily equal happiness. “I haven’t wasted my time in America, but I believe I would have been happier living in Ghana. Those who are settled and earning well in Ghana are happier than many of us abroad,” he said.
Iddi has traveled extensively—to Germany, France, the Czech Republic, and several other countries—but still believes true happiness is found in Ghana. “If my parents were alive and conditions in Ghana were better when I first arrived, I would have returned long ago,” he admitted.
Recently, Iddi celebrated the housewarming of his new home in Koforidua and purchased land at Amasaman, which he plans to develop soon. His wife, also a Ghanaian and a member of the U.S. military, is currently stationed in Germany. “The military usually aligns duty stations for couples so families can reunite,” he noted. “We’ve been fortunate to spend most of our service years together.”
Watch The Video Below:
About The Author
