UK-Based Ghanaian, Stephen aka “Big Apple,” Returns to Ghana for Business
Stephen, popularly known as Big Apple, a Ghanaian-born entrepreneur based in the UK, has officially returned to Ghana to establish his business.
A frequent guest on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami, Stephen had previously expressed his desire to return home, and now he has fulfilled that promise. Arriving just yesterday, he reaffirmed his belief that while securing a visa and traveling abroad is beneficial, many Ghanaians living overseas dream of returning home to start their own businesses.
Stephen shared that some Ghanaians abroad have large savings—some even ask him for business ideas—but fear that their investments might fail. However, he remains confident in his decision:
“I have come back to Ghana to focus on my business. Unlike before, I won’t make the same mistakes. I have learned a lot abroad, but nothing compares to working in Ghana and building your own country. Life overseas can be depressing at times.”
He advised that anyone returning home must be disciplined, as laziness can derail their plans. “If you are not careful, you will spend all your money without investing and end up running back abroad,” he cautioned.
Stephen emphasized that saving large sums to pay a travel agent (or “connection man”) often leads to long-term financial struggles.
“People save for 10 years just to pay an agent, but when they get abroad, it takes them even longer to recover that money. Some resign from their jobs in Ghana, hoping for a better life overseas, but when they get there, they realize it’s not what they expected. They end up overthinking and regretting their decisions.”
He compared the financial burden of living abroad with the cost of living in Ghana:
“Earning $800 in Ghana is sometimes better than earning $3,000 abroad. Although salaries abroad seem higher, after paying taxes, rent, road tax, insurance, and other bills, you end up borrowing money to survive. In Ghana, at least you can walk if you don’t have a car. Abroad, we buy cars mainly for work, but here, you can take your time and invest wisely.”
Stephen has already started his business, purchasing two tricycles (aboboya) for deliveries. He warned returnees not to rush into buying luxury items but instead focus on sustainable investments.
“When I first went abroad, I believed everything people told me. But now, I know better. My wife’s family in the U.S. pressured me to bring her over, but sometimes, staying back and building something for yourself is the smarter choice.”
He recalled advising a well-educated Ghanaian man who was considering paying 850,000 GHC for a permanent visa. Instead, Stephen recommended saving that money in a bank account and applying for different types of visas legally.
“Many people abroad are struggling but won’t admit it. They claim life is good, but in reality, they are just surviving. Some have overstayed their visas and are now stuck, unable to return home.”
Stephen recounted how a friend visited Ghana for three weeks and ended up spending $10,000 just on family expenses.
“People think that when you return home, you must distribute money to everyone. But when you run out of cash, those same people will laugh at you. Instead of wasting money, invest it in a business. Success doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a gradual process.”
He shared an example of a friend who bought land in another person’s name, only for the friend to betray him. Stephen advised that when investing in property, always ensure the land is legally secured in your own name.
“If you are paying someone to manage your business, always have a contract in place. Even if you are paying them monthly, ensure they are accountable for their actions.”
Stephen plans to sell televisions, fridges, furniture, and toiletries. He was surprised to discover that mattresses are made in Ghana but sold as though they are imported. He noted how some retailers add excessive profit margins, making goods unnecessarily expensive.
“I bought a mattress wholesale for 1,700 GHC, but others add huge markups, selling it for much higher. The government should regulate prices to keep things affordable for everyone.”
Stephen urged Ghanaians not to sell their homes, shops, or land just to travel abroad. Instead, he encouraged them to explore business opportunities locally.
“There will come a time when people abroad will want to return home, but they won’t be able to. Don’t wait until it’s too late.”
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