President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched Ghana’s fundraising campaign ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra.
The launch brought together key figures from the sports, entertainment and business communities. Among those in attendance were former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah, alongside Fatawu Dauda and Mohammed Polo. Musicians Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale and NACEE were also present, together with several business leaders.
As part of the initiative, organisers unveiled a World Cup raffle draw as a major fundraising tool to support the national team’s campaign. The Chairman of the Ghana World Cup Committee said the goal is to raise $30 million to cover Ghana’s participation in the tournament, as well as fund four international friendly matches.
“$30 million to fund Ghana’s participation at the FIFA World Cup and four international friendly matches. One nation, one team,” he stated.
He called for a united national effort, urging individuals and the private sector to contribute towards the campaign.
President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku, praised the President for his continued support for football development in the country.
“Post-elections, the evidence is clear for all to see. The Sports Fund is here, and he has also led the charge to support our Ghana Premier League,” he said.
He added that the President’s recent visit to the Black Stars’ training camp had a positive effect on the team’s performance.
“Since the President’s visit, Ghana has not lost a competitive game,” he noted.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams also highlighted the global exposure Ghana stands to gain from the tournament, pointing to the potential for high-profile fixtures on the world stage.
“Our group stage fixtures give us a strong global spotlight, and that’s why we’re calling for support for this global brand, the Black Stars,” he said.
He also revealed plans to make the matches more accessible to fans across the country, noting that efforts are underway to secure wide coverage on free-to-air platforms.
President John Dramani Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency in sports financing, announcing that the national team’s budget will be made public.
“For the first time in our history, the national team budget will be published. Ghanaians deserve to know how their resources are used,” he stated.
He, however, made it clear that public funds will not be used to sponsor fan travel to the tournament.
“The estimated cost of flying just 200 supporters is $2 million. Such initiatives must be funded by corporate organisations,” he explained.
The launch event also attracted significant financial commitments. Gold Fields Ghana pledged $2 million, while Engineers and Planners committed $5 million as headline sponsor. Musicians Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale each pledged GH¢100,000, alongside contributions from other individuals and organisations.
As part of the fundraising drive, organisers unveiled a World Cup raffle, expected to serve as a key revenue stream. The initiative will give fans the opportunity to support the team while standing a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the tournament. Participation is open via *899#.