President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched Ghana’s fundraising campaign ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra.

The event brought together leading figures from the sports, entertainment and business sectors, including former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah, Fatawu Dauda and Mohammed Polo. Musicians Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale and NACEE were also present, alongside business leaders.

As part of the initiative, a World Cup raffle draw was unveiled as a key revenue stream to support Ghana’s campaign. Chairman of the Ghana World Cup Committee revealed that the target is to raise $30 million to fund the team’s participation, including four international friendly matches.

“$30 million to fund Ghana’s participation at the FIFA World Cup and four international friendly matches. One nation, one team,” he stated.

He further called for a collective national effort, urging individuals and the private sector to contribute to the campaign.

President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku, commended the President for his continued support towards football development.

“Post-elections, the evidence is clear for all to see. The Sports Fund is here, and he has also led the charge to support our Ghana Premier League,” he said.

He added that the President’s visit to the Black Stars’ training camp had a positive impact on the team.

“Since the President’s visit, Ghana has not lost a competitive game,” he noted.

Sports Minister Kofi Adams highlighted the global exposure Ghana stands to gain from the tournament, particularly potential high-profile fixtures.

“Our group stage fixtures place us in a very strong global visibility window… that is why we want your support for this global brand, the Black Stars,” he said.

He also disclosed plans to ensure wider access to matches.

“We aim to secure wide distribution on free-to-air platforms,” he added.

President Mahama reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency in sports financing.

“For the first time in our history, the national team budget will be made public. Ghanaians deserve to know how their resources are used,” he stated.

He clarified that public funds will not be used to fly supporters to the tournament.

“The estimated cost of flying just 200 supporters is $2 million. Such initiatives must be funded by corporate organisations,” he said.

The launch also saw major financial pledges, with Gold Fields Ghana committing $2 million, while Engineers and Planners pledged $5 million as headline sponsor. Stonebwoy and Shatta Wale each pledged GH¢100,000, alongside other individuals and organisations.

The World Cup raffle is expected to serve as a central fundraising tool, offering fans the chance to contribute while standing the opportunity to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the tournament. Supporters can participate by dialling *899#.