Ghana saves $700,000 after reviewing Black Stars budget – Sports Minister
23rd January 2026
Ghana’s Sports and Recreation Minister, Kofi Adams, says the country has saved close to $700,000 following a review and rationalisation of the Black Stars’ budget.
The savings come after President John Mahama directed that the senior national team’s budget should no longer be treated as confidential, as Ghana prepares to resume its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. In line with that directive, Mr Adams made public the budget for the Black Stars’ recent double-header against Chad.
The move, led by the Buem Member of Parliament, sparked criticism from some sections of the football fraternity, with concerns raised about the wisdom of disclosing sensitive financial details.
However, Mr Adams has defended the policy, insisting the transparency drive has delivered clear financial benefits without affecting the team’s welfare. Speaking to the media after Vice President Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang paid a working visit to the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, he said the savings were the result of closer collaboration with the Ghana Football Association.
“We worked closely with the FA to rationalise the budgeting and disbursement processes, and this has saved close to $700,000 across two Black Stars matches,” he said.
The minister stressed that the cost-cutting measures did not compromise the players or technical staff, adding that all entitlements were paid in full.
“These measures have gone a long way to build confidence. The players did not suffer, and the technical team did not suffer. They continued to receive what was due them, even with the savings,” he added.
The Vice President’s visit was attended by Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku, Deputy Directors of the National Sports Authority Veronica Commey and Gideon Hammond, and the ministry’s Chief Director, Wilhelmina Asamoah.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars are expected to regroup in March for international friendlies against Austria and Germany, as preparations continue for the World Cup qualifiers.