Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Emmanuel Victor Smith, has raised concerns about the living conditions and lifestyles of some Ghanaians living in the US, particularly in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he says many migrants remain unemployed and spend long hours in churches instead of seeking work.

According to a report by adomonline.com on May 22, 2026, Smith disclosed that Worcester is home to a large Ghanaian community, estimated at about 45,000 people.

He noted that while many Ghanaians in the United States are thriving and contributing positively to society, others are struggling to adjust and make use of available opportunities.

Victor Smith expressed concern over what he described as a growing pattern of idleness among some migrants, stating that a number of them spend most of their time in churches instead of seeking employment.

“When some wake up, they go to sit in churches instead of finding jobs to do,” he said.

Victor Smith stressed that success abroad requires effort and determination, not only prayer.

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“God doesn’t drop manna from heaven. You have to do something. Make the effort so that He increases it,” he stated.

He further advised Ghanaians living abroad to engage in productive work and avoid remaining idle, especially at a time when immigration enforcement in the US has intensified.

“They should find something meaningful to do because currently, ICE is on people,” he warned.

Despite his concerns, Victor Smith acknowledged that many Ghanaians across the United States are excelling in different sectors and building successful lives.

“In certain places, Ghanaians are doing very well,” he added.

MRA/VPO

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