Dora, a 59-year-old widow, resides in Tema, a city in Ghana’s Greater Accra region, where she has lived for the past 11 years. She has been a self-employed businesswoman for over 40 years, having moved to Accra in 1984. Born on November 5, 1968, in Abogzume, a town in the Volta region, she grew up there and completed middle school in 1983. Though she once dreamed of becoming a nurse, financial difficulties prevented her from pursuing that path. In 1984, she relocated to Accra to stay with her sister, where she assisted in her sister’s business while training to become a hairdresser. She eventually worked as a self-employed hairdresser for many years.
Dora has five children and five grandchildren, whom she supports through her Fante kenkey business, which she started two years ago. She prepares the kenkey at least three times a week with the assistance of her daughter, who helps after school, and personally delivers it to local stores.
In the past, Dora also produced soap, washing powder, and other detergents but had to stop due to health concerns. The chemicals were too strong for her to handle. A friend had taught her the trade, and she saw it as a new opportunity to care for her children.
After her husband’s death on October 12, 2017, Dora’s life changed dramatically. Shortly afterward, she was diagnosed with diabetes. She took on the full responsibility of supporting her children, covering school fees and daily expenses, which required tireless effort. Despite the challenges, Dora continues to work hard, driven by her love for her family and her hope that her children, now in university, will soon become self-sufficient and able to support her in return.
Why did you retire or why are you still working?
Why did you retire?
Why are you still working?
Since the passing of their father, I have shouldered every responsibility, including school fees and daily expenses, entirely on my own. My primary goal has always been to ensure that my children have a good life and can focus on their studies without worry.
Although the work can be exhausting, I find strength in knowing that it won’t always be this way. I hold onto the hope that once my children complete their university education, they will become independent and even able to support me. Until then, I remain determined to keep going for their sake, as my children are my greatest motivation, pride, and joy.
Life expectancy 2023
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