The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has secured the long-term future of the U-17 national team by handing head coach Dr Prosper Narteh Ogum a new two-year contract.
Fresh from guiding the Black Starlets to qualification for the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Ogum has vowed to transform the youth setup into a world-class powerhouse.
The former Asante Kotoko boss, who succeeded Frimpong Manso, is now tasked with spearheading a new era for Ghanaian youth football ahead of the tournament in April.
For Ogum, this appointment represents more than just a quest for silverware. Speaking to GFA Media, he emphasised that his mission involves a complete overhaul of the squad’s competitive DNA.
He stated that the focus remains on building a technically sound, tactically disciplined, and mentally strong team capable of competing at the highest level in Africa.
He added that the staff are not merely preparing for a single tournament but are instead laying a vital foundation for the future of the national game.
Ogum is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between grassroots talent and senior international success.
Alongside his role with the Starlets, he serves as the GFA’s Head of Education, a dual responsibility that highlights his influence on the nation’s coaching standards and development pathways.
His managerial CV commands respect across the continent. He famously led the Porcupine Warriors to the Ghana Premier League title in 2022 and previously guided the West African Football Academy (WAFA) to a historic second-place league finish.
His extensive experience also includes a tenure with Ebusua Dwarfs and a stint as assistant coach of the Black Galaxies, further cementing his credentials within the national team setup.
The Black Starlets have long been regarded as the crown jewels of Ghanaian football, and the GFA’s decision to provide contract stability suggests a strategic move away from short-term fixes.
As the 2026 CAF U-17 AFCON approaches this April, Ogum’s primary challenge will be translating his trademark tactical discipline into a podium finish.
By integrating structured growth with the raw talent of the U-17 squad, the GFA aims to restore the Black Starlets to their former glory as a dominant force in African football.
Source: Ekow Segu
