President John Mahama has called for greater investment in women’s football, arguing that Ghana has consistently channelled more money into the men’s game despite the women’s stronger record of winning trophies.
Speaking at Jubilee House during a courtesy visit by Ghana Premier League champions Medeama SC, MTN FA Cup holders Nations FC and Ampem Darkoa Ladies ahead of their continental campaigns, Mahama said the imbalance in support must be addressed.
“Our women have won more trophies for us than the men, and yet we put all the money into men’s football,” he said.
The president said the disparity was evident even during the meeting, claiming Ampem Darkoa Ladies had initially received less attention than the men’s clubs until he intervened.
“Even today, you can see the discrimination. Ampem Darkoa were here, and they were almost ignored until I intervened. Yet look at the presentation she made, very eloquent,” he said.
Mahama said Ghana should take deliberate steps to raise the standard of women’s football.
“In the spirit of affirmative action, we must deliberately support women’s football and help bring the women’s teams up,” he added.
The president also announced financial support for the three clubs ahead of their respective continental competitions.
Medeama SC will receive GH¢342,000 (US$30,000), Nations FC GH¢228,000 (US$20,000), and Ampem Darkoa Ladies GH¢114,000 (US$10,000).
Mahama also said funds had been allocated in this year’s budget for the construction of 10 new stadiums across the country, including in the Oti, Western North, Ahafo, Bono East, Savannah and North East regions.
He added that athletics, boxing and other sporting disciplines would also benefit once the Sports Development Fund becomes fully operational.
