The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has unveiled significant cost savings on the Black Stars’ budget for the September 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Mali, following a directive from President John Mahama to ensure transparency and prudent public spending.
At a press briefing in Accra, Sports Minister Kofi Adams disclosed that the government approved a total budget of $1,320,490 for the two key fixtures—a sharp reduction from the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) original proposal of $2,053,240. The adjustment resulted in overall savings of $732,750 for the nation.
Minister Adams detailed the four-stage budgeting process: the GFA submitted its estimates for travel, accommodation, bonuses, training, and logistics; the Ministry reviewed and adjusted these items to fit government fiscal policy; the Presidency vetted and approved the revisions; and finally, clearance was given for the Ministry of Finance to release the necessary funds.
For the away match against Chad on September 4 in N’Djamena, the government approved $856,890—down from the GFA’s $1,239,090 request—delivering savings of $382,200. Funded items included player and official travel, a chartered flight, and accommodation and meals, while savings came from reducing imprest, scrapping certain fees, and halving player bonuses and staff allowances.
For the home fixture against Mali on September 8 in Accra, the government approved $463,600 instead of the GFA’s request of $814,150, resulting in a savings of $350,550. The budget covered key expenses, including players’ accommodation, per diems, and medical costs, with further savings achieved through cuts to transportation, allowances, and bonuses.
Minister Adams emphasized that these measures reflect the government’s commitment to accountability and value-for-money spending. “Across both match windows, we have realised total savings of $732,750. This demonstrates our resolve to protect taxpayers while still providing the essentials needed for the Black Stars to deliver,” he said.
He commended the GFA for its cooperation and praised the players for accepting the revised bonus structures that reflect the country’s economic realities. Adams reaffirmed the Ministry’s ongoing collaboration with the GFA to ensure realistic national team budgets aligned with Ghana’s fiscal priorities.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
