Reported by Akpeleasi Flora-28/02/2024

Addressing the nation yesterday, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo turned his attention to football, a beloved sport in Ghana, revealing his personal connection and outlining a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate the national team, the Black Stars. Reflecting on past glories and recent disappointments, the President emphasized the need for a strategic overhaul, including grassroots development and talent scouting, under a new Presidential Policy on Football.

Body: In his address, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo outlined a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate Ghanaian football, emphasizing grassroots development and talent scouting under a new Presidential Policy on Football aimed at revitalizing the sport from the district level upwards.

While celebrating past successes, including four continental trophies and a historic World Cup qualification in 2006, the President lamented recent disappointments, particularly the Black Stars’ early exit from the recent AFCON tournament in Cote d’Ivoire. However, he expressed confidence in the team’s desire to make the nation proud,
The President highlighted the need for collaboration between the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Ghana Football Association to identify and nurture talent at the grassroots level. He cited the construction of over 150 astro turf pitches as foundational facilities for talent development and drew inspiration from past successes, emphasizing patience and dedication in realizing Ghana’s footballing ambitions.
He expressed confidence that with the right investment and commitment, the Black Stars would rise once again to bring pride to the nation.
Additionally, the President recognized the achievements of the senior Women’s team, the Black Queens, and urged support for their upcoming matches.