Independent Candidate Omar Yusif Shares His Experience in Japan and Insights on Investment in Ghana
Omar Yusif, an independent candidate from the Dormaa West constituency, is currently in Japan on a business trip.
Reflecting on his journey, he recalls contesting the elections as an independent candidate but losing.
Afterward, he decided to explore business opportunities abroad, leading him to Japan for the first time. Despite being in Japan, he emphasizes that he has substantial investments in Ghana and encourages others to invest in their home country.
According to Yusif, if one has money in Ghana, it is advisable to invest in something productive rather than keeping it idle.
He has made several investments in Ghana, primarily in agriculture. However, he notes that doing business in Japan is vastly different from Ghana. In Japan, everything is strictly monitored and regulated, limiting personal freedom in business operations.
Yusif points out that many Ghanaians in Japan wish to return home to invest, but the reality is tough. Although they earn money, high living expenses make it difficult to save and invest in Ghana.
He also highlights how agents often deceive migrants, promising them lucrative earnings upon arrival in Japan. Unfortunately, many find themselves struggling to meet financial expectations, leading to disappointment and loss of hope.
Yusif believes agriculture is a viable solution to unemployment among the youth. He mentions that some of his friends in the UK are planning to return to Ghana to venture into farming.
He shares an example of his brother, who once earned GHC 10,000 a day from trading soya beans, maize, and other commodities between Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Togo. After spending time in the UK, his brother has decided to return to Ghana to engage in agriculture full-time.
Yusif owns Jesioh Company Limited, which deals in cashew and cocoa farming. Additionally, he operates the largest fish farm in the Bono Region at Dormaa West.
His contributions to the agricultural sector earned him a national award nomination. Apart from farming, he also rears goats and sheep, which he considers a profitable venture.
As an accountant by profession, Yusif worked at Ghana Cocoa Water after completing his studies in 2012. He later joined a national trust company involved in cocoa trading. However, when the company faced challenges, he transitioned into the cashew industry and now serves as the chairman of a cashew association.
He invested GHC 200,000 into his fish farming business and had opportunities to travel to Canada and the U.S. However, after losing the election, he redirected his focus to Japan, where he sought business opportunities and negotiations with companies interested in his products.
Yusif emphasizes the importance of building Africa to create sustainable opportunities for its people. He recalls helping a young man secure an opportunity abroad, only for the person to abscond with GHC 40,000. This, he says, highlights the need for proper guidance when assisting others.
During his flight to Japan, he witnessed five Ghanaian passengers being deported at the port of entry due to inadequate documentation and preparation. He advises that travelers must ensure they meet all legal requirements to avoid deportation.
Despite his success in farming, Yusif acknowledges the challenges farmers face in Ghana, particularly in selling their produce. Market women often prefer to buy on credit, which discourages new farmers. He suggests the establishment of a structured system to support farmers in selling their products efficiently.
Yusif observes that while Japan has a strong security system and a high standard of living, the cost of living is also very high. Ghanaians in Japan work tirelessly to meet their expenses. He also notes that qualifications from Ghana hold little relevance in Japan, as most Ghanaians end up in labor-intensive jobs regardless of their educational background.
He encourages the youth to consider agriculture as a profitable venture, given the growing demand for food. Through his social media platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram (@umaryusif), he provides guidance and free training on farming.
In conclusion, Yusif remains committed to promoting investment in Ghana, particularly in agriculture. He urges Ghanaians abroad to consider farming as a viable business and work towards building Africa’s economic strength.
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