Sports Minister dares GFA to “Be bold” and name author of unsigned statement on Black Stars budget

The Minister for Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, has challenged to the Ghana Football Association (GFA), urging the association to “be bold” and attach a name to its recent unsigned statement over the reduction of the Black Stars’ match preparation budget.

The controversy erupted after the Ministry of Youth and Sports reviewed the GFA’s initial request for $2 million to prepare for upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers and cut to $1.3 million.

In response, the GFA released a strongly worded statement expressing “grave concern” over the budget cut. However, the statement was issued without attributing authorship, prompting Minister Adams to question the accountability within the football governing body.

“The GFA’s statement has no name attached. Who wrote it? Is the person afraid to put his name there? Be bold. Who is communications department?” he asked during an interview with Sporty FM.

The Minister confirmed the budget adjustment, stating it was the result of a standard review process. “The ministry looked at the items and decided to cut some. That’s why it’s now $1.3 million,” he explained.

General Secretary of GFA, Prosper Harrison Addo acknowledged the Minister’s comments. In a brief response, the association stated it had noted the Minister’s assertions and would “in due course, provide clarifications to the issues raised.”

Separately, the GFA has maintained that it is not directly responsible for the expenditure of the budget, as funds are managed through the Ministry’s financial systems.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars are set to begin training today ahead of their match against Chad on Thursday.