Black Stars World Cup qualifying budget for Chad and Mali games cut by over $732,000
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has cut more than $732,000 from the Black Stars’ budget for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Mali and Chad. This is in accordance with President John Mahama’s order to guarantee budgetary restraint and transparency in national team spending.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) had originally asked for $2,053,240, but after careful consideration, the government authorized $1,320,490, Sports Minister Kofi Adams told reporters in Accra on Tuesday.
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“Submission by the GFA, adjustments by the Ministry, vetting by the Presidency, and final clearance from the Ministry of Finance,” he continued, were the four steps of the budgeting process.
The GFA requested $1,239,090 for Matchday 7 versus Chad at N’Djamena; however, the government approved $856,890, saving $382,200.
Imprest was cut, facility user fees were eliminated, transportation was rationalized, and bonuses were restructured, with players’ winning bonuses being cut in half from $260,000 to $130,000.
Matchday 8 versus Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium followed a similar strategy. The GFA requested $814,150, but the government authorized $463,600, saving $350,550. Once more, $310,000 was saved by reducing imprest, lodging, transportation, and bonuses.
Adams stressed the cuts demonstrate government’s commitment to prudent spending.
“Across both match windows, we have realised total savings of $732,750. This demonstrates government’s resolve to protect taxpayers while ensuring the essentials required for the Black Stars to perform are fully funded,” he said.
