Report by Pearl Amoako – 28/02/2024

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed his concern over the recent disappointing performance of the national football team, the Black Stars, and outlined a long-term strategy to revitalize Ghana’s football scene.

He emphasized the importance of scouting and developing talent at the grassroots level and announced plans for a Presidential Policy on Football to be implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

“It is time to return to scouting, grooming and developing talent at the district grassroots level under a Presidential Policy on Football that I intend to unveil.”

Acknowledging the passion Ghanaians have for football, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the historic achievements of the Black Stars, including their four continental trophies and their remarkable performance in the 2010 World Cup, where they came close to reaching the semifinals. However, he acknowledged that recent results, particularly in the recent AFCON tournament, have left the nation saddened.

To address the shortcomings and restore national pride in football, the he proposed a long-term approach that focuses on identifying and nurturing talent from the district grassroots level. He emphasized the importance of merit-based selection and progression, from junior juvenile teams to the senior national side.

The President cited the success of the previous five-year football development plan, which led to the discovery and nurturing of talents such as Michael Essien, Sulley Muntari, and Asamoah Gyan.

“A similar approach has been tried before, under the five year football development plan, led by the late Ben Koufie and initiated under the NPP administration of President J.A Kufuor.”

Speaking at the State of the Nation’s Address in Parliament, President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the impressive performance of the senior women’s team, the Black Queens, who have been performing creditably and called for increased support and attention for their achievements. He wished them well in their upcoming matches and expressed hope that they would give Ghanaians something to cheer about.

In addition to football, the President announced that Ghana is ready to host the 13th edition of the African Games, marking the first time the country has hosted the event. Despite facing financial challenges during the preparations, President Akufo-Addo commended the perseverance and courage of the organizers. He expressed satisfaction with the completed sporting facilities and expressed confidence that they would continue to benefit the country even after the games.