Discover how a simple act of kindness in China holds transformative lessons for Accra, Ghana and Africa. This story challenges norms, redefines values, and offers actionable insights to combat corruption, inspire dignity, and foster a better society. Let’s explore how Ghana can embrace humanity, integrity, and progress for a brighter future.
Why Change Feels Impossible in Ghana
There are certain things I personally believe will never happen in Ghana—not in my lifetime. You’ll never see them in Accra, the capital city of Ghana, and certainly not across the African continent. Yet, these are the things I wish, hope, and pray to see before I leave this world. These values and practices have the potential to transform communities, foster dignity, and create a future full of possibilities for all.
The Story That Shook My Perspective
This video delves into one such transformative story—a simple yet profound moment that happened in China. It features a Cameroonian man, known as iVentures, who encountered an extraordinary act of kindness during his travels. On his first day in China, he sought help finding an iPhone store to buy a SIM card. A worker at a tourist information center, despite the language barrier, decided to guide him personally. She walked with him for over 30 minutes to ensure he found his destination. When he offered her money as a token of gratitude, she refused. Her response—“No, thank you”—wasn’t about money; it was about humanity, integrity, and duty.
The Harsh Reality in Accra, Ghana
Reflect on this scenario for a moment. How often do we see such selflessness in Ghana? Assistance in many parts of the country is often tied to expectations of compensation. Whether you are at an immigration desk or seeking directions on the street, people expect something in return. This transactional mindset is not just about money; it is a reflection of deeper societal norms that need reevaluation.
A Lesson from Shanghai’s Streets
As iVentures walked through Shanghai, the differences between the city and Accra became glaring. The clean sidewalks, orderly traffic, and lack of open gutters are all stark contrasts to what we see in Ghana. While Shanghai isn’t perfect, its infrastructure and organization are miles ahead of what we often encounter in Accra. These differences, however, extend beyond aesthetics—they are rooted in values and principles.
The Power of Saying No
What struck me most wasn’t the infrastructure; it was the principle embodied by the worker. She didn’t have to help iVentures, but she did. She wasn’t seeking recognition or financial gain—she was simply doing her job. When she refused the tip, her message was loud and clear: “We are not beggars.” This wasn’t just a statement; it was a demonstration of dignity, a quality we need to embrace in Ghana.
Imagining a Bribery-Free Ghana
Ghana is a resource-rich country. There’s no reason we cannot adopt principles like those displayed in this story to build a society we are proud of. Imagine a Ghana where immigration officers, market vendors, and police officers offered help purely out of goodwill, not because they expected a bribe. Imagine a Ghana where universal income ensures that no one has to resort to unethical practices to make ends meet.
The High Cost of Corruption
Corruption is robbing Ghana of its dignity and future. Bribery has become so ingrained in our systems that it feels almost impossible to root out. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Universal basic income, as recommended by the United Nations, could be the game-changer Ghana needs. By providing a guaranteed income, we can reduce poverty, stabilize finances, and diminish the desperation that fuels corruption.
Why Infrastructure Alone Isn’t Enough
While it’s easy to marvel at Shanghai’s clean streets and concealed drainage systems, the real lesson lies in the mindset of its people. This isn’t about skyscrapers or luxury homes. Those things mean little when the spirit of the people is lost to greed and corruption. The worker’s refusal to take a tip showed that she valued her integrity over material gain. This is the kind of cultural shift Ghana desperately needs.
A Vision for Ghana’s Future
This is my dream for Ghana: a nation where help is given freely, without expectations. A country where people work together to create a society rooted in integrity and humanity. It’s not about building mansions or luxury apartments—it’s about building values. Let’s create a Ghana where even the simplest act of kindness carries the power to inspire change.
Call to Action
If this vision resonates with you, let’s make it a reality. Start small. Refuse to take or give bribes. Advocate for universal income. Demand accountability from our leaders. And most importantly, embody the values you want to see in others. Together, we can rebuild Ghana into a nation we’re all proud of.
Conclusion and Reminder
Ghana’s path to greatness lies not in luxury buildings but in values like integrity, selflessness, and accountability. By fostering these principles and embracing solutions like universal income, we can eradicate corruption and create a dignified society. Together, let’s build a Ghana we’re proud of—one act of kindness at a time.