A viral video featuring an African American woman criticizing the widespread practice of pricing rental and real estate properties in U.S. dollars instead of Ghanaian cedis has sparked intense debate online.
The woman, who recently relocated from the United States to Ghana, expressed her frustration over what she views as an unfair system that caters to foreign buyers while exploiting local citizens.
A Call for Fair Pricing
In the trending clip, she argues that it is unreasonable for landlords and developers in Ghana to demand payment in U.S. dollars when the country’s official currency is the cedi.
“Can you go to the USA and charge goods and services in cedis?” she asked.
She further called on members of the African diaspora to reject this practice, stating:
“For all the foreigners supporting this, y’all need ya ass whooped, because it just don’t make no sense.”
Her passionate remarks have fueled online discussions about affordability, economic fairness, and the role of the diaspora in shaping Ghana’s housing market.
Why Are Properties Priced in Dollars?
The issue of dollar pricing in Ghana’s real estate sector is not new. Many developers and landlords justify the practice by citing currency instability, arguing that pricing in U.S. dollars protects investments from cedi depreciation. However, critics say it disadvantages local residents, making homeownership and renting increasingly inaccessible.
Under Ghanaian law, the Bank of Ghana mandates that transactions be conducted in cedis, with exceptions for specific international transactions. Yet, enforcement remains a challenge, and dollar pricing persists, particularly in high-end neighborhoods catering to expatriates and wealthy investors.
Public Reactions
The video has ignited widespread debate on social media, with many Ghanaians and members of the diaspora echoing her concerns.
Others argue that the demand for dollar-based transactions is a reflection of global economic realities and Ghana’s push to attract foreign investment.
As discussions continue, the controversy underscores larger conversations about affordability, economic inclusion, and how Ghana balances local interests with its growing appeal as a destination for the African diaspora.
