Former Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has attributed the Black Queens’ third-place finish at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) to policies and investments initiated under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Ghana secured its first medal since 2016 by defeating South Africa in a dramatic penalty shootout to claim the bronze.
Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, Ussif highlighted several initiatives rolled out during Akufo-Addo’s tenure, which he believes laid the foundation for the team’s success.
“We should not forget that when COVID happened, for the first time, Nana Akufo-Addo ensured that all Women’s Premier League players received stipends, and most of these Black Queens players were beneficiaries,” Ussif stated.
He also credited the nationwide construction of astroturf pitches as a key driver of development in women’s football.
“The numerous astroturfs constructed across Ghana have benefited clubs immensely. Most of these clubs now train and play on them, and that has contributed to the success we are witnessing,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament has presented a cash donation of GH₵100,000 to the Black Queens in recognition of their impressive performance at the tournament.
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