Man sells his wild animals to pay children’s school fees

In Abossey Okai, a spare parts hub in Accra, a middle-aged man has been seen selling wild animals that he transported on the back of his bicycle. Solomon Dieudonne Ametepe, who is currently unemployed, has cages filled with various animals ready for sale. He revealed to GhanaWeb’s video journalist, Kwame Adzaho-Amenortor, that the animals on display are just a few of the many he has on his land in Nsawam.

Samuel, as he’s also known, explained that he is selling the animals to raise money to pay for his children’s school fees. He purchased a half plot of land in Nsawam in 2007 for a mere GH¢200. However, there were animals on the land that scared him at first. Despite this, he took care of them and even tamed a monkey he called Potato, which he sent on errands. He currently has two Nile crocodiles, a male and a female, as his pets. The lifespan of these crocodiles can range from 95 to 100 years.

Samuel admitted that he developed a love for taking care of the animals, and it has become a hobby for him. Due to wildlife concerns, he has kept the animals hidden away while he works on getting the proper authorisation to operate a mini-zoo in the future. He plans to have tamed animals that visitors can come and see.

Solomon Dieudonne Ametepe explained that he once had dreams of joining the Ghana Armed Forces, but it did not pan out. He has since learned about herbs and uses that knowledge to support his family. When it comes to selling wild animals, he stated that he makes sure the buyer is a wildlife advocate. He only sells to those who show a genuine interest and appreciation for the animals.

He also mentioned that he has kickboxing, Taekwondo, and self-defense skills that he teaches to schools. He even travelled to Dubai once but has since returned to Ghana to settle down.

Samuel’s love for animals has become a unique way for him to make a living while pursuing his interests.

–The Post Ghana