Memunatu Sulemana, a former goalkeeper for the Ghanaian women’s national football team, finds herself in a deeply distressing situation as she resides in a makeshift wooden kiosk in the Kaneshie suburb of Accra, Ghana.
Memunatu Sulemana was an integral part of Ghana’s golden generation in women’s football, achieving remarkable success on the African continent and participating in World Cup tournaments.
A prominent figure in Ghana’s women’s football history, Sulemana was part of the national team that made its debut at the FIFA World Cup in 1999, hosted by the United States. Her participation continued in subsequent editions, including the 2003 and 2007 tournaments in the United States and China, respectively.
Sulemana’s football journey intertwined with the careers of renowned players such as Adjoa Bayor, Alerta Sackey, and Mercy Tagoe Quarcoo, among others. She contributed significantly to the growth of the sport, serving as the captain of the Black Queens.
Her club career included stints with Post Ladies in Ghana and Pelican Stars in Nigeria’s Women’s Premier League. Despite her impressive accomplishments in football, Sulemana’s circumstances have taken an unfortunate turn.
At present, the former goalkeeper’s living situation involves a makeshift structure, partly constructed from wood and an old advertising banner. This rudimentary shelter offers limited protection, particularly during the rainy season.
While many of her contemporaries have transitioned into various professions post-retirement, the 45-year-old Sulemana finds herself grappling with severe poverty. In an interview with Original TV, Sulemana candidly shared the challenges she faces. Despite earning income from her football career, a substantial portion of her resources were dedicated to caring for her grandmother, who battled diabetes and required medical attention.
Prior to her current predicament, Memnunatu Sulemana served as the goalkeeper’s trainer for the Black Maidens of Ghana, highlighting her continued dedication to the sport despite her personal challenges.
SOURCE: GraphicOnline
