A Historic Achievement and Promises for the Future
The Black Queens, Ghana’s national women’s football team, recently presented their Bronze Medal to President John Dramani Mahama. This achievement came after the team’s participation in the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament held in Morocco. The presentation took place at the Presidency, where several key figures were in attendance.
Among those present were Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Dr Callistus Mahama, the Executive Secretary to the President, Mr Kofi Eddie Adams, the Minister of Youth and Sports, and Mr Kurt Okraku, the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA). The event marked a significant moment for the team and the nation as a whole.
President Mahama expressed his pride in the team’s performance, highlighting their semi-final match against Morocco as particularly challenging. “You made us proud. You lost gallantly to the host country Morocco and Ghanaians are impressed,” he said. He praised the team’s resilience, especially during the penalty kick situation. “In spite of that you were not discouraged and played your hearts out to bring home the bronze medal.”
The President emphasized that the Black Queens’ achievement was part of a broader plan to condition and elevate sports in Ghana. He promised substantial investment in sports, stating, “We want to scout for talents across the country, catch them young and train them.” His vision includes reviving past glory by focusing on athletics, football, boxing, and other sports disciplines.
Under the Big Push agenda, President Mahama outlined plans to provide modern sports stadia in all regions that currently lack them. Additionally, he mentioned the initiative to equip some schools with sports facilities, turning them into incubating zones for future athletes.
He also directed the Interior Minister to prioritize individuals with sports talent during recruitment, ensuring that security agencies have the necessary facilities to help these individuals develop their skills. “I also pledge support for the FA. We are thinking about a dedicated source for funding sports,” he added.
President Mahama expressed optimism that before the end of his tenure, the Black Queens would achieve the ultimate goal: winning the gold medal. His confidence in the team’s potential reflects a broader commitment to the development of sports in Ghana.
Following the presentation, President Mahama and Vice President Opoku-Agyemang gifted the Black Queens an undisclosed cash amount as a token of appreciation. Mr Okraku, the President of the GFA, thanked the President and the Government for their continued support. He pledged full commitment to reviving Ghana football in line with the Government’s Reset Agenda.
This event highlights not only the achievements of the Black Queens but also the government’s dedication to fostering a robust sports culture in the country. With promises of investment, infrastructure development, and talent scouting, the future of Ghanaian sports looks promising.