In a poignant address, Samuel Okudzeto, Member of Parliament for North Tongu and fervent supporter of Ghanaian football, highlights the profound sacrifices taxpayers are making to support the Black Stars during these economically challenging times. Okudzeto urges the players to acknowledge the immense financial burden placed on the nation’s citizens, emphasizing the need for respect and unwavering commitment.
Official documents presented to Parliament by Ghana’s Youth and Sports Ministry unveil the stark reality of the Black Stars’ expenditures:
1. 2024 AFCON Qualifier (Ghana V Angola — Home & Away) — GHS7,452,437.71
2. 2024 AFCON Qualifier (Ghana V Madagascar — Home & Away) — GHS8,395,434.13
3. 2024 AFCON Qualifier (Ghana V Central Africa Republic — Home & Away) — GHS3,414,894.51
4. April to June 2023 salaries of the coach & signing on fees — GHS3,379,548.10
5. Airlifting supporters during the 2022 FIFA World Cup — GHS5,324,721.89
These revelations expose a staggering total expenditure of GHS27,967,036.34, excluding the latest tournament costs in Côte d’Ivoire. Okudzeto underlines the urgency of reconsidering priorities in a country grappling with financial constraints, unable to raise GHS4 million for crucial healthcare at Korle-Bu’s renal unit.
The story resonates with Okudzeto’s call for Black Stars players and Ghana Football Association officials to recognize the broader national issues that could be addressed with GHS27.9 million. The calamitous financial output prompts reflection on the appropriateness of such spending during a historic economic crisis, challenging the deserving nature of these expenditures in the face of pressing national needs.
