There will be complete transparency regarding government's expenditure on national teams - President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has made it clear that, moving forward, the expenditures of all national teams, particularly the Black Stars, will be disclosed to the public, as it is taxpayers' money that funds their activities.

The President's statement follows growing calls for investigations into the Ghana Football Association amid allegations of misappropriation, including the misuse of FIFA funds.

Many football fans have voiced their frustration, questioning why the country continues to support the Black Stars despite their ongoing struggles, financial mismanagement, and disappointing performances.

In his first State of the Nation Address to Parliament on Thursday, February 27, since taking office, the President expressed concern over the declining fortunes of the national teams, especially the Black Stars.

He expressed particular concern about the disappointing results of the national senior men's football team, the Black Stars, and revealed that he has directed his office and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation to hold the Ghana Football Association accountable to the people of Ghana, especially during the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

"Next month, the senior national team, the Black Stars, which is now a pale shadow of its former glory, will play two World Cup qualifying matches. I have instructed my Office and the Minister for Sports and Recreation to hold the Ghana Football Association accountable to the people of Ghana as we prepare for these games, especially regarding the budget of the FA," he said. 

"There will be no secrecy in how much the government spends on the national teams.  The budgets presented by the FA and other sports associations must be known by the public."

"After all, it is the taxpayers' funds that are used to fund these activities. The reduction in government expenditure and waste reduction applies to all sectors of the economy, including the Ministry of Sports and Recreation," he added.

The Black Stars will take on Chad in the fifth match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Friday, March 21, at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Following that, the Stars will travel to Madagascar for a match on Monday, March 24, as they look to secure a strong qualification for the global tournament.