Why you should not lend money to family and friends

Ghanaian media personality and herbalist, Ahintasem, also known as Oheneba Ntim Berimah, has shared valuable insights on financial matters for 2024 and beyond.

During a candid discussion on Oman FM, he cautioned listeners about the risks of lending money to close friends and family, a practice that could potentially damage long-standing relationships.

Drawing from personal experience, Ahintasem detailed a troubling situation where he had lent money to a female friend who had earnestly requested his help.

“She came to me in a time of need, and as a friend, I felt compelled to assist,” he shared. “She held me in high regard and seemed to think that, because of our friendship, I would be there to support her financially.”

At the time, the woman promised to repay the loan within six months. “She made assurances that she would pay me back within that timeframe, and I trusted her,” Ahintasem explained.

However, when the six months came and went, she returned with a request for an additional extension, claiming her financial situation had not improved as expected.

“She asked for another six months. I agreed, hoping things would get better for her,” he said.

Despite the extension, the woman failed to honour her commitment, and, to Ahintasem’s dismay, she gradually stopped communicating with him altogether.

“She didn’t even greet me anymore, and I could feel the respect that once existed between us fading away,” he said with frustration.

Rather than confronting her immediately, Ahintasem initially chose to let it go. “I never mentioned it to her directly,” he revealed.

“But as time went on, I realized that I couldn’t just let this slide.”

Frustrated by the lack of respect and the ongoing avoidance of repayment, he ultimately decided to address the matter head-on. “I had to ask for my money back. It wasn’t just about the money anymore; it was about being disrespected.”