The Government of Ghana has assured the public that the Senior National Women’s Team, the Black Queens, are safe and in good condition in the United Arab Emirates, where they are currently camped for the Pink Ladies Cup.
The assurance was contained in an official statement issued by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, following public concerns about regional developments in the Middle East.
According to the statement dated March 2, 2026, the Ministry said it has taken proactive steps to ensure the continued safety, welfare, and peace of mind of the team as they prepare for upcoming international commitments.
The Ghana Black Queens are in the United Arab Emirates as part of their build-up toward the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, a major continental competition later this year.
The Ministry disclosed that the Minister for Sports and Recreation has been in constant engagement with key national and international stakeholders to closely monitor the situation.
These engagements include regular communication with the Ghana Football Association, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, and Ghana’s Mission in the UAE.
Officials from Ghana’s Mission in the UAE have visited the team at their training base and provided direct assurances of government support. The Ministry noted that these interactions were aimed at ensuring that the players and technical team remain secure and focused on their sporting objectives.
The statement commended the Embassy for what it described as a prompt response, proactive engagement, and effective coordination during this period.
“The Government remains fully committed to the protection, welfare, and well being of all Ghanaian athletes representing the nation abroad,” the statement said, adding that developments in the region continue to be monitored closely in collaboration with appropriate authorities.
Focus on Preparation for Continental Assignment
The Ministry emphasized that the Black Queens’ participation in the Pink Ladies Cup forms a critical part of their preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Officials stressed that maintaining a stable and secure environment for the team is essential to allow the players concentrate fully on training, tactical work, and match performance.
While acknowledging the broader regional uncertainties, the Ministry stated that no immediate threat has been identified in relation to the team’s activities or location.
It added that any necessary measures would be taken without hesitation should circumstances change, always in the best interest of the players and officials.
The public was encouraged to remain calm and continue to support the Black Queens as they pursue their preparations and represent Ghana on the international stage.
Foreign Affairs Minister Reassures Ghanaians
Further reassurance was offered by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who also confirmed that the team is safe and receiving appropriate diplomatic support. He disclosed that he had personally spoken with the leadership of the Black Queens and received direct updates on their condition.
“Our diplomatic mission in the UAE has been in close contact with the Black Queens, extending much-needed consular support,” the Foreign Affairs Minister stated. He added that the safety and welfare of all Ghanaians abroad, particularly those currently in the Middle East, remain a top priority for the government.
His remarks reinforced the Ministry of Sports and Recreation’s position and underscored the government’s coordinated approach in safeguarding Ghanaian citizens and national teams outside the country.
The statement from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation forms part of a broader policy stance that places athlete welfare at the center of Ghana’s international sporting engagements.
In recent years, the government has increasingly emphasized the role of diplomatic missions in supporting national teams, particularly during international tournaments and training camps.
By maintaining close collaboration between sports authorities, foreign affairs officials, and Ghana’s diplomatic missions, the government aims to ensure that athletes are protected not only on the field of play but also in their living and training environments.
As the Black Queens continue their preparations in the UAE, officials remain confident that the measures in place will allow the team to focus on performance while the state attends to security and welfare concerns.
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