Peter Sarpong, a Ghanaian truck driver based in the U.S., recently shared his journey on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide with DJ Nyaami. Currently living in Woodbridge, Virginia, he has been in America for about 13 years, transporting containers and trailers across states, including Virginia Beach and Chesapeake.
Before moving to the U.S., Peter worked as a lab technician at SNIT Hospital in Osu, Accra, for nearly 20 years. Well-known in the Osu area, he had built a career in the medical field. However, his father, who had migrated to the U.S., later filed for the family to join him. Reflecting on his move, Peter acknowledged that relocating to America isn’t easy, but with hard work, one can succeed. Fortunately, his parents’ support made the transition smoother.
After arriving in the U.S. in his early 30s, Peter explored various career options. While continuing in the medical field would have been ideal, he realized that trucking offered better financial prospects. In 2016, he decided to pursue trucking full-time. He had previously driven taxis alongside his healthcare job, so transitioning into trucking was a natural fit.
Peter explained that becoming a truck driver requires obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The process involves passing three key exams:Air Brakes, General Knowledge, Traffic Signs and Regulations
Once qualified, drivers must undergo supervised training before earning their full commercial license. Training includes mastering truck parts, gears, backing, parallel parking, and understanding road safety rules. A good command of English is essential, as communication is part of the licensing process.
Peter has been driving trucks for eight years and enjoys the experience. He emphasized that while trucking in Ghana is tough, the job is much easier and more regulated in the U.S. Drivers are allowed to drive for a maximum of 11 hours before taking mandatory breaks, and truck seats come with heating and cooling options for comfort.
The nature of trucking depends on the type of cargo transported. Some drivers haul refrigerated goods (reefers), flatbeds carrying construction materials, or even cement. The more distance one covers, the higher the earnings. Long-haul truckers who travel across states, like to California, make more money than those who work locally or regionally. Some family-oriented truckers prefer short-distance routes to be home more often.
Peter also spoke about “lot lizards,” a term used for prostitutes at truck stops. He advised truckers to stay focused on making money rather than getting distracted by such temptations. He reaffirmed that he is married with children in Ghana and frequently travels back to visit them.
Despite misconceptions, Peter stated that truck driving does not necessarily cause health problems. However, drivers must stay physically fit since the job requires passing health tests. He also debunked the belief that trucking in Ghana and the U.S. share the same challenges. While Ghanaian truck drivers face difficult conditions, American truckers operate under better regulations and have more resources.
Owning his truck gives Peter flexibility—he works four days a week and takes breaks when needed. He believes trucking is one of the best career choices in America.
“If there were a PhD in trucking, I would pursue it,” he joked. His passion for the job keeps him going, and he even prays before hitting the road.
Peter shared that he has been able to achieve a lot through trucking, allowing him to support his family in Ghana. Though currently alone in the U.S., he visits Ghana frequently and even spent four months there during COVID-19.
For those considering trucking, Peter’s advice is to understand the system and be disciplined. “Life in America is like the difference between earth and heaven,” he said, emphasizing that with the right mindset, one can thrive. If given another chance at life, he would choose trucking again but do it even better.
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