Ghana's Minister for Sports, Mustapha Ussif, announced that Black Stars had earned a total of $10.5 million (101 MILLION GH¢) for their efforts at the 2022 FIFA World Cup held in Qatar.
101 MILLION GH¢ prize money for Black Stars
During a press briefing at the Ministry of Information on Wednesday, 26 July 2023, Minister Ussif revealed the breakdown of the received amount. Out of the $10.5 million (101 million GH¢), $1.5 million (11.3 million GH¢) was allocated by FIFA for the preparation of the senior national team, while the remaining $9 million (101,8 million GH¢) was awarded for their participation in the group stages.
🚨🇬🇭 The Ghana FA has received $9m in World Cup 2022 participating fees from FIFA, according to Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif. pic.twitter.com/Jo95daqDzk
— Football View (@FootballViewYT) July 26, 2023
“We have received [the World Cup prize money]. The FA has written to the Ministry that FIFA has transferred the prize money to the FA. They’ve written to us, and I’ve also written to my bosses,” Msaid Minister Ussif, confirming the receipt of the funds by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
The Black Stars' performance in the 2022 World Cup was commendable, as the team showcased their talent and determination on the international stage. It is estimated that Ghana utilized approximately $5.1 million (57.7 million GH¢) during their participation.
With the receipt of the prize money, Ghanaians eagerly awaited the government's decision on how to strategically use these significant funds. The nation's priority for sports development and infrastructure improvement highlighted the government's commitment to fostering a thriving sports culture and nurturing the potential of talented athletes.
Ghana to invest World Cup funds in development
The distribution of the prize money sparked considerable interest as Ghanaians wondered how the government would allocate these substantial funds. Minister Ussif drew from precedents set in previous World Cups to outline the potential plans for utilizing the money.
In 2006, a portion of the prize money was allocated to the FA for sports development and infrastructure, while another portion was sent to the Consolidated Fund. In 2010, the government invested in the team, leading to all the prize money going to the government. And in 2014, some of the money was given to the FA for their participation in the AFCON in 2015.
For the 2022 World Cup, the government was considering using the funds to support sports infrastructure development and improve facilities, with a particular focus on the Prampram sports facility. However, it was emphasized that Executive approval would be necessary before any public communication regarding the allocation of the funds.
Minister Ussif stated, “We are just about going to AFCON. We also want to improve some sports infrastructure. The FA has written to us that they want to improve the infrastructure at Prampram.”
The 2022 FIFA World Cup was marked by an increased prize money pool of $1 billion (11.3 billion GH¢), representing a substantial 29% rise compared to the previous edition. This increase signalled FIFA's continued dedication to rewarding participating teams for their hard work and dedication, while also providing a platform for nations to invest in their sports development programs.
The Black Stars' participation in the tournament, although ending at the group stage, brought pride and joy to the nation, and the reward received for their efforts opened up new opportunities for sports development and growth.
As the government moves forward with its plans to allocate the funds, the hopes and aspirations of the Ghanaian people for a brighter future in sports remain steadfast. The prudent and strategic use of these resources can undoubtedly contribute to the country's sporting success and the creation of an even more robust and vibrant sports ecosystem in Ghana.
This article was most recently revised and updated 3 months ago
