Accra: The Government, through the Ministry of Finance, has authorised the release of GHS76 million to support the Senior National Men's Football Team, the Black Stars. A statement issued by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications, said the financial commitment was divided into two key disbursements to ensure the Team's successful participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, currently underway in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Government released GHS 58 million, equivalent to US $5,000,000.00, as an advance payment to facilitate preparations and cover costs associated with the team's participation in the group stages of the World Cup. This funding underscores the government's commitment to providing the team with the resources it needs to compete on the global stage.
Additionally, the Government has released GHS 17 million, equivalent to US $1,488,000.00, for the settlement of outstanding bonuses owed to the team. These payments fulfill the performance-based agreement established during the qualifying series. Under this arrangement, the Team received 50 per cent of their bonus during the qualifiers, with the remaining 50 per cent contingent on successful qualification for the tournament.
The Government remains committed to supporting the Black Stars and the development of sports in the country. The release of funds is expected to provide the stability and motivation needed for the technical team and players to focus on their core mandate: delivering success for the people of Ghana. The statement calls on all Ghanaians to continue offering their support to the Black Stars as they embark on this prestigious journey to the World Cup.