Ghana’s sports sector is experiencing a sharp decline, with poor performances in international competitions raising serious concerns, particularly about football management.
President H.E. John Dramani Mahama has once again reiterated his commitment to transparency in the financing of sports, particularly the budget of the Black Stars.
During his State of the Nation Address on Thursday, February 27, 2025, Mahama appealed for the transparent declaration of all financial inputs in national teams because they are financed with taxpayers’ money.
“Next month, the senior national team, the Black Stars, now a shadow of their former selves, will be in action. I have instructed the Minister for Sports and Recreation to hold the GFA accountable, particularly on the budget for the team.
“There will be no secrecy in how much money the government puts into the national team. The budget that is presented by the GFA and other associations must be made public because it’s the taxpayers’ money.”
President Mahama
The call for transparency comes as the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) management of funds, especially expenditures on national teams, is coming under growing scrutiny.
President Mahama also instructed the newly named Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, to introduce transparency, professionalism, and modernity into the sports sector, with a special focus on restoring the Black Stars to their former glory.
The Black Stars have crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar as they attempt to qualify for the global tournament.
President Mahama’s emphasis on transparency is significant in dispelling concerns over inefficiency and alleged mismanagement of funds in Ghana football.
The renewed governmental emphasis on transparency and accountability should have the administration of sports funding enhanced and the public more confident in the sector.
There have been heated debates in recent years over the budget for the Black Stars, particularly during major tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
President Mahama Promises Major Overhaul of Grassroots Sports
President Mahama reiterated his commitment to establish a School Sports Authority as part of efforts to revamp Ghana’s grassroots sports in the country.
The President emphasized the need to reposition youth sports development in the country.
“Recognising the critical role of youth development, we’re implementing a significant overhaul of grassroots sports with the establishment of the School Sports Authority. This body will oversee structured inter-school competitions and talent identification initiatives essential for nurturing future sporting champions.”
President Mahama
President Mahama highlighted that over 60% of Ghana’s elite athletes have emerged from school sports programs, reinforcing the need for a structured system to identify and develop budding talents in the sector.
The move is expected to improve funding for competitions, infrastructure, and other things that will aid the progress of young athletes across the country’s schools.
The President of Ghana also admitted the worrying decline of the country’s sporting prowess in recent years.
In the past, Ghana had been a force to reckon with on the continent as well as the world at large as far as sports is concerned.
Successes including medals at the Olympic Games, boxing laurels, and track and field achievements as well as excelling in football at the youth and senior levels were among the celebrated moments in Ghana’s sporting history.
However, these days the country has found it difficult to come to the party when required.
President Mahama, having admitted the decline, says is committed to ensuring the country returns to its glory days again. “Ghana’s sports sector, once again, which was a shining example of excellence within Africa, now finds itself at a very critical juncture,” he said.
“Historically, our nation has been celebrated and has had remarkable achievements in boxing, football, and athletics. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case.
“However, recent years have unveiled the depressing structural deficiencies in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development. Immediate and comprehensive reforms are imperative to reclaim our rightful place on the global sports stage.”
President Mahama
The change needs to happen fast as the Black Stars prepare for 2026 World Cup qualification action after missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be staged in Morocco.
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