MYaw Freeman, a Ghanaian currently based in Germany, has opened up about the realities of living abroad and the misconceptions many Ghanaians have about life outside the country.
According to Freeman, critical and logical thinking are essential for anyone considering working or living abroad. “Many people back home think we are thriving when abroad, but the truth is, life is very hard,” he explained in an interview with DJ Nyaami on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide show.
He emphasized that staying abroad comes with bureaucracy and strict regulations. For example, in some countries, giving birth does not automatically make the child yours—the government takes care of the child under its own system. Similarly, securing the proper working permit, or nkrataa, can take months or even years, and most people who stay abroad without it for over five years face serious struggles.
Freeman also highlighted social challenges. He said that many Ghanaians abroad, especially those interacting with white partners, face complicated cultural dynamics. “Most white men and women who marry black people are exceptions in their societies, and many have not worked for the last 20 years. A lot of them struggle with alcoholism, and some spoil things for Ghanaians abroad,” he noted.
He cautioned that the myth of quick success abroad is misleading. “Some think they can achieve a lot within five years, but in reality, it can take three to five years just to stabilize and navigate legal, social, and financial systems,” Freeman said.
He encouraged Ghanaians to prepare properly, learn the rules of the country, and be realistic about expectations. “Most Ghanaians abroad are suffering. Critical thinking and planning are key if you want to survive and succeed,” he concluded.
Yaw Freeman’s story serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing that life abroad is not always glamorous, and the real value often lies in preparation, patience, and strategic planning.
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