Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has urged the government to invest more in Ghana’s football sector to help revive the sport in the country.
Speaking before a parliamentary fact-finding committee on the state of football on Wednesday, September 24, 2024, Appiah emphasized the need for financial support to strengthen all levels of the sport, not just the senior national team.
Appiah lamented the dwindling interest in football among Ghanaians, noting that the country’s failure to win any major trophies over the past 40 years, with the last Africa Cup of Nations victory dating back to 1982, has been particularly disheartening.
“Many football lovers have lost hope, and that is not good for the country. It’s sad that Ghana has not won any trophy in the last 40 years,” Appiah stated.
He also pointed out the neglect of youth teams, including the under-17, under-20, and under-23 teams, as well as women’s football, stressing that all levels should receive equal attention and funding.
Appiah further criticized the lack of opportunities for players who excel during qualifiers but are sidelined during major tournaments, saying this affects team unity.
The session also saw contributions from Seth Panwun Boyoyo, Chairman of the National Sports Authority, who noted the agency’s role in promoting both amateur and professional sports. Boyoyo referenced the substandard pitch during Ghana’s recent match against Angola, calling it “unfortunate” and promising that corrective steps were being taken.
The committee, chaired by Kobena Mensah Woyome, MP for South Tongu, was established to investigate the declining state of football in Ghana following a petition by the Fix Ghana Group earlier this year. Woyome encouraged all participants to speak openly, emphasizing the importance of their input in addressing the 15 points raised by the petitioners.
“We want your presentations to be bold and free from fear or favour. Your input is crucial to addressing the concerns raised,” Woyome added.
The committee’s findings are expected to influence future policies aimed at restoring the glory of Ghanaian football.
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