By Nana Kwame Bediako
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has unveiled an ambitious plan to invest over GH¢ 3 million in providing footballs to clubs in both the topflight and lower divisions for the upcoming season, which kicks off in September. This significant investment aims to bolster the quality of football played across all levels in the country.
Kurt Okraku disclosed the news during GFA’s 30th Ordinary Congress held at the Ghanaian Soccer Centre of Excellence on Tuesday, 27th August, 2024.
“Football is all about balls,” Okraku emphasized. He highlighted the GFA’s strategic partnership with FIFA, which will see an investment of $100,000 earmarked specifically for purchasing footballs for grassroots development.
This initiative underscores the GFA’s commitment to nurturing young talent and enhancing the infrastructure of the sport at the grassroots level. By ensuring that clubs in the lower divisions have access to high-quality footballs, the GFA hopes to create a more level playing field and foster the growth of future football stars.
In addition to the grassroots focus, the GFA’s investment will also benefit clubs in the topflight divisions. This move is expected to improve the overall standard of play in the Ghana Premier League and other competitive leagues, making them more exciting and competitive.
The collaborative effort with FIFA is not a one-off event. President Okraku mentioned that this strategic plan to invest in footballs for grassroots development will be an ongoing effort. This continued investment demonstrates the GFA’s long-term vision for the sport in Ghana.
The GFA’s substantial investment is set to play a crucial role in the development and success of Ghanaian football, from the grassroots to the professional level.