In a statement issued by the Ministry, it stressed that President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, have consistently ruled out the use of taxpayer money to fund supporter trips to the tournament.According to the Ministry, the government’s position is informed by the high cost involved in sponsoring fans, estimated at about $11,000 per supporter, and the need to channel limited resources into Ghana’s economic development and sports infrastructure.
The statement noted that the Ministry has remained committed to recommendations contained in the Justice Dzamefe Committee Report and the subsequent government White Paper, which prohibit the use of state funds to mobilise supporters for national team assignments abroad.
“The Ministry’s actions have always aligned with these directives, ensuring that taxpayer money is protected and used responsibly,” the statement emphasised.
Instead of relying on public funds, the Ministry said government has adopted a private sector-led approach to support Ghana’s participation in the World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
It explained that, acting on the directive of President Mahama, a fundraising campaign was launched at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra to mobilise support from corporate Ghana.
The initiative seeks to raise approximately $30 million to support Ghana’s participation in the global football showpiece.
According to the Ministry, any excess funds remaining after meeting tournament-related expenses will be invested in sports infrastructure development across the country.
The Minister, Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, assured Ghanaians that transparency and accountability would guide the management of all resources mobilised under the initiative.
He also expressed appreciation to corporate organisations that have responded positively to the government’s appeal for support.
The Ministry further pledged to provide comprehensive updates on the receipt and utilisation of all donations from corporate partners at the appropriate time.
It stressed that government is not opposed to supporters travelling to cheer the national team at the World Cup, but insists that such participation must be facilitated responsibly, transparently and without recourse to public funds.
The statement reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting the national team through private sector partnerships and prudent financial management.
