Sports Minister Promises Support for Black Stars Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifier
As the Black Stars gear up for their pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad on March 21, Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams has addressed growing concerns regarding the team’s financial backing. During a media briefing following the Black Stars’ first training session, Adams remained tight-lipped about the specific budget allocated for the team.
“The budget for the Black Stars? We will support whatever we have to do. The President, John Dramani Mahama, is backing us to ensure that essential needs are met,” Adams stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the national team.
This statement comes in stark contrast to President Mahama’s recent remarks during his State of the Nation address, where he called for transparency in the government’s expenditures on national teams. He assured the public that the budgets presented by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and other sports bodies would be made available for public scrutiny.
In response to the President’s call for transparency, the GFA clarified that all financial matters related to the Black Stars fall under the jurisdiction of the Sports Ministry, indicating a clear delineation of responsibilities.
The financial management of the Black Stars has been a contentious topic in Ghanaian football, with many critics arguing that the funds allocated to the national team have been excessive. As the Black Stars prepare for their crucial match, the focus now shifts to how effectively the government will manage and communicate the team’s finances.