A surfing adventure

Kofi Acquah, from Busua Beach, Western Region, where he grew up, shares his story with us.

Growing up in Busua, there was a black surf shop that was interesting to him. He often saw people surfing. So, one day, he tried it and loved it. Eventually, he went to work with that shop. He would go surfing after school and work in the shop as a staff. “I became good at surfing and a friend in the USA helped me to become more professional. He then bought and sent me three surf boards to start my business”. 

Although he became very good, it was difficult because of the competition from the many different surf shops in Busua. He moved to Kokrobite in Accra and continued surfing. In 2018, he moved to Sango beach, Nungua. However, business was slow. So, he organised some surf trips to create awareness of surfing at Sango beach. 

 He says that he loves water and saw an opportunity to make money from it. Kofi was only able to complete Junior High School but could not continue. His willingness to learn and the wise counsel and support from his friend in the USA who enabled him to raise the capital to start. With time, he says “today, I am able to take care of myself and support my family”.

He encourages people to try surfing and to use available opportunities to learn a new sport and skills generally.

“I try to teach the kids in the neighbourhood how to surf but the condition is for them to stay in school and take their books seriously”.

Aside from surfing, he drives sometimes. He also takes and organises workshops on repairing surfboards and lifeguard courses.

He urges the youth to focus on what their hands find to do. “Learn a skill and take care of the environment and especially plastic use and how to manage waste. This way, we can enjoy such sports while appreciating the beauty of nature.