Parliament’s Select Committee on Youth and Sports has endorsed the national fundraising initiative launched by President John Dramani Mahama to support Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The campaign, the Committee said, is a call to national duty, unity, and shared responsibility that goes beyond fundraising to represent a defining moment in Ghana’s sporting journey.
Addressing the media in Parliament on Thursday, Chairman of the committee, Ernest Norgbey, explained the initiative is not merely a financial campaign, but a call to national duty.
He emphasized the unifying power of football, noting that the Black Stars continue to bring Ghanaians together regardless of political, ethnic, or religious differences.
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“Whenever the Black Stars step onto the field, our differences fade into insignificance, and we are united by a common national identity,” Mr. Norgbey said.
He described Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as not only a sporting milestone but also a symbol of national cohesion and pride.
According to the Committee, the $30 million fundraising target is both necessary and justified, given the high cost of preparing for a global tournament.
“Preparation for a global event of this magnitude entails substantial costs related to logistics, technical preparations, player welfare, and international friendlies,” he explained.
The funds, he said, will ensure adequate preparation to enhance the competitiveness of the Black Stars on the world stage.
The Committee called on corporate Ghana, financial institutions, and private sector actors to play a leading role in supporting the initiative.
Particular mention was made of the Association of Ghana Industries, manufacturing firms, and beverage companies, with Mr. Norgbey urging them to contribute meaningfully.
“Across the world, private sector participation has been central to the development of sports, and Ghanaian businesses must rise to the occasion,” he noted.
The Committee assured the public that strict oversight mechanisms will be implemented to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of funds.
“We will ensure that all funds mobilized are subjected to strict accountability processes before, during, and after the tournament,” Mr. Norgbey assured.
He added that Parliament would work closely with the Ghana Football Association and relevant institutions to guarantee efficient use of resources.
The Committee also appealed to Members of Parliament from both the Majority and Minority sides to support the initiative, stressing that football transcends political divisions.
“The Black Stars represent every Ghanaian regardless of political affiliation,” he said, urging unity in advancing the national agenda.
Mr. Norgbey described the fundraising drive as a “national movement” that offers every Ghanaian an opportunity to contribute to a shared vision.
“Together, let us ignite the spirit of the Black Stars and demonstrate to the world the strength, unity, and resilience of Ghana,” he declared.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the success of the initiative while promoting transparency, coordination, and national pride ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.