Ghana’s ambitious World Cup fundraising drive has kicked off with a bang, securing $10m on its opening night while setting out a clear blueprint for the future of the nation’s sporting infrastructure.
The Deputy Finance Minister, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has confirmed that any “excess” money raised beyond the immediate needs of the national team will be diverted into the Ghana Sports Fund.
The move aims to ensure that the excitement surrounding the Black Stars’ upcoming campaign leaves a lasting legacy for athletes across the country.
The fundraising committee, chaired by Ampem, is aiming to generate $30m to facilitate Ghana’s journey to the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The budget covers not only the tournament itself but also a rigorous preparation schedule involving four international friendly matches.
Speaking at the high-profile launch at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, Ampem assured contributors of total transparency, noting that all donations are being managed through dedicated accounts at the Bank of Ghana.
“Excess money that will be generated will be donated to the Ghana Sports Fund so that it will continue to support sports in this country,” Ampem said.
The launch event saw a powerful intersection of politics, sport, and culture. President John Dramani Mahama led the delegation, supported by Sports Minister Kofi Adams and GFA President Kurt Okraku.
The room was a “who’s who” of Ghanaian excellence. Football legends such as former captain Stephen Appiah, Fatawu Dauda, and Mohammed Polo joined musical icons Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, and Nacee.
Prominent business leaders also attended the event, helping the committee reach a third of its total goal on the very first day.
For the “Red and Yellow” faithful, the campaign is not just for corporate donors. A World Cup raffle has been launched, offering fans the chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to witness the tournament first-hand in North America.
The Black Stars face a challenging task on the pitch after being drawn in Group L. They will begin their World Cup campaign in Toronto, Canada, on 17 June, where they face Panama.
The group is rounded out by a heavyweight clash against England and a technical test against Croatia.
With $10m already in the bank and a clear plan for the surplus, Ghana’s preparations are moving at pace both on and off the field.
