A Ghanaian hairstylist has returned to Accra after spending close to a decade in South Africa in search of greener pastures, arriving home with a mix of disappointment, relief, and fresh ambitions in Ghana’s creative industry.

He was among a group of Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa following renewed outbreaks of xenophobic-related tensions targeting foreign residents, a situation that forced many to abandon their lives abroad and return home unexpectedly.

Speaking after his arrival at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, he reflected on his experience abroad and expressed deep frustration about his time on the continent outside Ghana.

He added, “I’m done with travelling in Africa. But I will travel again to Europe. I’ve been away for almost 10 years.”

Despite the difficult return, he says he is determined to rebuild his life in Ghana and redirect his skills into the entertainment and beauty industry, where he hopes to collaborate with top musicians and public figures.

“My dream now is to style Ghanaian musicians and artistes such as Stonebwoy,” he added, naming award-winning artist Stonebwoy as one of the stars he hopes to work with.

The evacuees, who arrived in Ghana through government coordination, included several citizens who shared emotional accounts of fear, instability, and hardship they endured before leaving South Africa. Officials from state institutions and security agencies were present at the airport to receive them and ensure their safe return.

For the hairstylist, however, the experience has marked a turning point. While his years abroad ended under distressing circumstances, he says his focus now is on starting over in Ghana and building a successful career in the country’s growing creative and entertainment space.

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Source: Yvonne Nyarko Agyemang