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Tag: Mustapha Ussif

  • Mustapha Ussif, Gifty Oware-Mensah, 10 others to be charged for NSA scandal

    Mustapha Ussif, Gifty Oware-Mensah, 10 others to be charged for NSA scandal

    Attorney-General (A-G) and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, has revealed the identities of 10 out of 12 individuals who will be charged and prosecuted for the financial scandal at the National Service Authority (NSA).

    The individuals set to be charged, according to Dr Ayine, during a press briefing today include:Mustapha Ussif, a former Executive Director, Gifty Oware-Mensah, former Deputy Executive Director; Osei Assibey Antwi, former Director General;Kwaku Ohene Gyan, former Deputy Executive Director for Operations.

    The others are Abraham Bismarck Gaise, former Internal Auditor; Kwaku Adjei, an Account Officer;Iddrisu Abubakar, former Head of Accounts; Stephen Kwabena Gyamfi, former Regional Director for Koforidua; Prince Awuku, a District Director; and Jacob Yawson, Management Information Systems Administrator in the Northern Region.

    The remaining two suspects have not been revealed by the A-G as they are yet to be formally identified.

    A whopping GHC548,333,542.65 was lost to the criminal enterprise perpetrated by executives, directors, and staff at the National Service Authority (NSA).

    Providing a breakdown during a press briefing, the A-G stated that “In the 2022/2023 service year, 350,926,977.12 was lost to the state. For the 2023/2024 service year, 32,881, 157.07 was lost to the republic.”

    He further added, “The criminal enterprise that resulted in the loss of this colossal loss of sum of money involved the creation of ghost names in the NSA payroll system by some directors and staff, which was subsequently exploited to misappropriate state funds for their gain.”

    Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, has been named as one of the suspects that will be charged and prosecuted.

    Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, was released by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) after being questioned in connection with an ongoing probe into the ghost names scandal at the NSA in March.

    Gifty Oware-Mensah was arrested on March 7,  following her return to Ghana on March 5 after being named a suspect in  ongoing probe into a ghost-name scandal after the release of an investigation by The Fourth Estate.

    The Fourth Estate’s investigation has exposed major payroll irregularities, including the fraudulent use of “ghost names” to inflate the payroll and divert funds. It revealed that officials bypassed mandatory validation processes, enabling thousands of nonexistent individuals to be added to the payroll. 

    In some cases, names were duplicated multiple times, with one appearing as many as 226 times. Among the falsely listed beneficiaries was a 72-year-old Kenyan, Kwame Donkor, along with other foreign nationals.

    Investigators identified 81,885 “ghost” names used to siphon state resources.

    Consequently, President John Dramani Mahama, in his first State of the Nation Address, directed law enforcement agencies to take firm action against those implicated.

    This has led to intensified investigations and a series of arrests. Aside from Gifty Oware-Mensah, former Deputy Director of Operations at NSA,  Kwaku Ohene Gyan was arrested on February 22, and subsequently released.

  • Sports Ministry admits NSA ‘goofed’ by giving Baba Yara out for rent ahead of Ghana-Angola game

    Sports Ministry admits NSA ‘goofed’ by giving Baba Yara out for rent ahead of Ghana-Angola game

    Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed disappointment in the National Sports Authority (NSA) for “neglecting their duties” by renting out the Baba Yara Stadium just weeks before Ghana’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

    In July, the stadium was leased for a five-day ‘Kumuyi’ Church program, which left the pitch in poor condition.

    The Black Stars went on to lose 1-0 to Angola in their opening qualifier at the venue, with the poor state of the pitch becoming a major issue.

    As a result, CAF revoked the stadium’s licence to host international matches, raising the possibility that Ghana may have to play its next home match abroad.

    “Of course, [the NSA failed in its duty] by its singular decision to rent the Kumasi Stadium for that program just before the Angola match,” Ussif said.

    Renting out national stadiums has become the NSA’s main source of revenue, but this practice has proven to be counterproductive, as the facilities are often left in poor condition afterward.

    Meanwhile, the Sports Ministry released a statement, ‘directing’ the National Sports Authority, to “take steps to resolve issues with the pitch” at the Baba Yara Stadium.

  • Africa Games: Sports ministry gives a breakdown of the alleged $3m coverage fee paid to GBC

    Africa Games: Sports ministry gives a breakdown of the alleged $3m coverage fee paid to GBC

    Ministry of Youth and Sports has provided a detailed explanation regarding the payment made to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) for its role as the official broadcaster of the 13th African Games held in Accra earlier this year.

    This clarification follows controversy sparked by remarks made by the Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) session on Monday, August 19, 2024.

    During the PAC session, the sports minister claimed that the Ministry had disbursed over $3 million to GBC for its production and broadcasting services for the Games.

    This statement was made in response to concerns raised by MP Samuel Nartey George of Ningo Prampram about unpaid debts to technical staff involved in the event.

    In contrast, GBC’s Director-General, Prof. Amin Alhassan, publicly disputed the Minister’s claim, stating that GBC had only received $105,000, which was allocated to support the broadcaster’s decision to dedicate a channel to the African Games, thus suspending regular programming on GTV Sports Plus.

    In response to this discrepancy, the Ministry of Youth and Sports issued a press release on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, outlining the financial arrangements with GBC in detail.

    The Ministry explained that multiple proposals for the production and broadcasting rights of the 13th African Games were reviewed, with some exceeding $6 million, which was considered excessive.

    To build local capacity and ensure a lasting legacy, the Ministry chose GBC as the official broadcaster. This decision was partly due to GBC’s lower financial quotation compared to other proposals.

    “The Ministry of Youth and Sports, through the Local Organising Committee, received proposals from various stakeholders for the production and broadcasting rights for the 13th African Games,” the press release stated.

    “Some organisations submitted proposals in excess of $6 million, which the Ministry deemed excessive.”

    The Ministry clarified that the total agreed payment for GBC’s services amounted to $3.6 million. Of this total, $2.5 million was paid directly to GBC in two installments: $1 million on March 13, 2024, and $1.5 million on May 22, 2024.

    The remaining $1 million was paid directly to third-party service providers based on GBC’s instructions, as outlined in the contractual agreement.

    “From the total amount, $2.5 million was paid directly to GBC in two tranches: $1 million on March 13, 2024, and $1.5 million on May 22, 2024. Another amount of $1 million was paid to third parties upon the instructions of GBC, in accordance with the contract,” the release explained.

    The Ministry emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that all financial transactions were conducted with the highest level of integrity.

  • Govt paid $3m to GBC for coverage of 2024 All African Games –Sports Minister

    Govt paid $3m to GBC for coverage of 2024 All African Games –Sports Minister

    Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, has revealed that his ministry has paid $3 million to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC).

    According to the minister, this payment covers the full cost of broadcasting the 2024 All African Games, which took place in Accra four months ago.

    The minister made this disclosure while responding to a question from Ningo-Prampram MP, Samuel George, regarding the status of the payment to the state broadcaster during a session of the Public Accounts Committee on Monday, August 19, 2024.

    “You had an arrangement with GBC to cover the All African Games. Can you share with this committee how much that coverage was for, and whether payment has been made for same?” Sam George asked.

    In response, Mr Mustapha Ussif confirmed that “Yes, GBC was the official broadcaster for the 13th All African Games, and I can confirm that full payment has been made to GBC. I can’t remember the exact amount but I know that it is in the excess of $3 million”

    For emphasis, Mr George asked “you paid GBC in excess of $3 million for coverage of the All African Games…?” to which the Minister responded, “Yes.”

    Sam George explained that his question was based on the fact that “many of the technicians who worked on the All African Games have yet to be paid.

    We sought to find out if any payments have been made and the amount disbursed.”

    He added that the Public Accounts Committee will address this issue with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation during their next appearance before the committee, to understand why the technicians have not been compensated.

  • Ghana’s Youth Resource Centres in sorry state; Sports Minister explains why

    Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has pointed to insufficient funds as the reason behind the poor condition of the National Youth Resource Centres.

    In a press briefing on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, the Minister explained that while the project is 90 percent finished, contractors have not been paid, which has hindered the completion of the work.

    He added that because of these payment delays, the projects have not been formally handed over to his office, leaving them still unavailable for use.

    “We had challenges with some of them regarding payment to the contractors. I must admit. But because the contractors have not handed over the projects officially to us, we can’t go and use them. Because we have not commissioned them.”

    He assured his sector is putting measures in place to get the needed funds for the contracts to finish the abandoned projects.

    “We are working very hard to make sure that they get their payment and they can go back and complete them for us to use,” he said.

    The deteriorating state of the Youth Resource Centres has led to public outcry regarding the management of these facilities by authorities.

    The stadiums affected include the Ho Sports Complex, Navrongo Sports Complex, Dormaa Multipurpose Sports Complex, and the Azumah Nelson Sports Complex in Kaneshie.

  • You can’t visit Mahama before reaching out to gov’t – Sports Minister blasts National Amputee Soccer team

    You can’t visit Mahama before reaching out to gov’t – Sports Minister blasts National Amputee Soccer team

    Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed disappointment with Ghana’s national amputee soccer team, the Black Challenge, for not paying a courtesy call on the Ministry of Youth and Sports after their African triumph last month.

    The team, which recently won the 2024 Amputee Africa Cup of Nations (AAFCON) in Egypt, visited several personalities including former President John Mahama who is the flagbearer for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) before finally visiting the Ministry.

    Minister Ussif stated, “That cannot be tolerated,” emphasizing the need for national teams to prioritize official visits to government institutions after such victories.

    He pointed out that the team’s actions were different from the previous year when they visited the Ministry directly. This year, however, they chose to visit other personalities, including former president John Dramani Mahama, who donated $10,000 to the team.

    During the team’s visit to the Sports Ministry to present the trophy, Minister Ussif expressed his displeasure, stating, “This year you started going from one place to another place to another place without even rendering records to government who sponsored you and that cannot be tolerated.”

    He reminded the team that as a national team, they represent the state, and their actions should reflect this. He also charged the President of the National Paralympic Committee to account for every donation received by the team.

    “We will communicate after you have presented all the statements [and] all that you have received to my office,” Minister Ussif said.

  • All Africa Games: Sports Minister praises athletes and fans

    All Africa Games: Sports Minister praises athletes and fans

    Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has praised the outstanding performance of the Ghanaian team at the recently concluded African Games, calling their accomplishments heartening and a source of great national pride.

    Mustapha Ussif was speaking at a news conference held in Accra on Monday, March 25

    “I applaud each member of the Ghanaian team for their unwavering dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of excellence. Your outstanding accomplishments not only elevate our nation’s pride but also ignite inspiration among aspiring athletes across Ghana,” he said.

    Minister Ussif, speaking at a news conference in Accra on March 25, 2024, expressed gratitude to the President, Vice President, and Ghanaians for their steadfast support during the 2023 African Games.

    The event, featuring athletes from various nations, showcased the collective talents and efforts across the continent.

    The 2023 African Games wrapped up with a vibrant ceremony after 16 days of thrilling competition.

    Ghana emerged as a standout performer, clinching a record-breaking 69 medals, marking the country’s most successful outing in the competition’s 59-year history.

    The medal tally included 19 gold, 29 silver, and 21 bronze medals, achieved across 10 sporting disciplines.

    Notably, arm wrestling contributed significantly to Ghana’s medal count, securing 41 medals, which accounted for 60% of the total.

    Minister Ussif also emphasised the government’s commitment to maintaining the sporting facilities constructed for the African Games.

    He highlighted President Akufo-Addo’s plans to repurpose and sustain these facilities for the broader sporting community beyond the conclusion of the games.

    This underscores the government’s dedication to fostering sports development and providing athletes with opportunities to excel in world-class facilities.

  • African Games: Mustapha Ussif disassociates himself from Ghana Cycling Federation equipment failure

    African Games: Mustapha Ussif disassociates himself from Ghana Cycling Federation equipment failure

    Ghana’s Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, has pointed fingers at the Ghana Cycling Federation for the equipment malfunction that affected Ghanaian cyclists at the African Games.

    The incident occurred when the country’s national cycling champion, Michael Naaba, had to withdraw from the competition due to a faulty bicycle. Naaba revealed that the tube connected to his bike exploded shortly after he started the race, forcing him to exit.

    Naaba further disclosed that he had been using an old tube for training since there were no provisions for new ones for the competition.

    This revelation, along with similar complaints from other cyclists, prompted heavy criticism from the public directed at the Sports Ministry and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the African Games.

    However, in response to the backlash, Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif absolved both the ministry and the LOC of any responsibility for the equipment failure.

    Ussif attributed the blame to the Ghana Cycling Federation, stating that the ministry and the LOC had requested all necessary equipment from the federations beforehand.

    “Basketball submitted their list, and we went through it with them and procured all the equipment for them worth close to a million dollars, just like other Federations,” the Minister said.

    “So if you’re the Cycling Federation, and you knew that you needed fibre-made bicycles and not aluminium bicycles, it is your responsibility to submit your list to us, and we will get them. If we can not get all, at least we will buy some,” Mustapha Ussif said.

  • Ghana expecting 13k participants ,2 billion audiences to be in attendance at 2023 African Games – Sports Minister

    Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has disclosed that Ghana will host approximately 13,000 participants for the upcoming 13th African Games.

    Scheduled from Friday, March 8th, to March 23rd, 2024, the Games will feature athletes, technical officials, volunteers, and special guests.

    Ussif provided these details during his segment of the Ministerial Meet the Press, addressing the media.

    “The 13th African Games is expected to attract over 13,000 participants from fifty-four (54) African countries, including officials, athletes, diplomats, the media and volunteers.”

    The minister outlined the distribution as follows: 5000 athletes, 3000 volunteers, 3000 technicians, and 200 guests hailing from different African nations.

    Mustapha Ussif clarified that Ghana bears the responsibility of providing accommodation, meals, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities for the participants throughout their stay in the country.

    Furthermore, the Minister of Youth and Sports disclosed that the Games are anticipated to attract over 2 billion viewers worldwide through television, radio, and various digital platforms.

  • ‘Africa Games 2024’ saved Mustapha Ussif’s job as Sports Minister – Report

    ‘Africa Games 2024’ saved Mustapha Ussif’s job as Sports Minister – Report

    Reports from inside Jubilee House suggest that one minister who narrowly escaped the 14th February reshuffle was the Minister of Sports, Mustapha Ussif.

    Close advisors of President Nana Akufo-Addo suggested that the embattled Minister and the Ministry be allowed to focus fully on the 13th African Games, which Ghana is hosting, showcasing the country’s commitment to hosting a world-class tournament with all preparations completed.

    President Akufo-Addo agreed, especially since a week ahead of the reshuffle, he had officially commissioned the Borteyman Sports Complex, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s preparations for the games.

    During the commissioning, the Sports Minister appeared jittery and somber around the President, leading to suggestions that he should be sacked after the abysmal performance of the Black Stars at the just-ended African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The Minister supervised the spending of more than US$3 million on the Stars’ doomed campaign that lasted less than two weeks, with local camping in Kumasi and flights to Ivory Coast borne by CAF.

    The Yagaba Kubore lawmaker was seen following the President around without focus during the commissioning of the Borteyman Sports Complex, which has state-of-the-art facilities and will host seven competitive sports: table tennis, handball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, badminton, and the triathlon.

    Notably, four of these disciplines – table tennis, tennis, triathlon, and badminton – will serve as qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, adding an extra layer of excitement and importance to the event.

    The complex boasts a 1,000-seater capacity aquatic center featuring a 10-lane competition swimming pool alongside a 10-lane warm-up pool, as well as a 1,000-seater multi-purpose sports hall ready to host a myriad of events.

    Additionally, a temporary dome accommodating 500 spectators adds further flexibility to the venue. Tennis enthusiasts will be thrilled by the five-court complex, which includes a prestigious 1,000-seater Centre Court.

    Moreover, the Borteyman Sports Complex features a six-lane warm-up athletics track and a FIFA-standard football training field, ensuring athletes have access to top-notch training and competition venues.

  • Govt to construct University of Sport for development

    Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has revealed the government’s plans to transform the Borteyman Sports Complex into the University of Sport for Development after the 2024 Africa Games.


    Speaking during the commissioning of the multipurpose sports complex, on February 5, 2024, in Accra, Mr Ussif mentioned the ”government’s long-term vision of transforming the entire infrastructure here at Borteyman into a University of Sport for Development.”


    Emphasising the advantages of this modern sports facility, he stressed that it would become a hub of excellence, fostering the growth of young talents and hosting international competitions.


    “The construction of state-of-the-art sports facilities in the country not only provides a platform for athletic excellence but also contributes to the overall infrastructure development, leaving a legacy for generations to come.


    “After Accra 2023, these facilities will serve as centres of excellence, nurturing budding talents, and providing a platform for international competitions,” he said during the commissioning of the Sports Complex on February 13, 2024.


    Borteyman Sports Complex boasts four domes, comprising a temporary 500-seater dome for handball, a 1,000-seater aquatic complex, a multipurpose sports hall accommodating 1,000 spectators, and a tennis centre also seating 1,000.


    During the upcoming 13th African Games hosted in Ghana, the Sports Complex is set to accommodate seven competitions: table tennis, handball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, badminton, and the triathlon.


    Scheduled to commence on March 8 and conclude on March 23, 2024, the African Games will showcase the capabilities of this state-of-the-art facility.


    The stadium covers a 150-acre land and has facilities for seven competitive sports, including table tennis, handball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, badminton, and triathlon

    Four of these events will also serve as qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France.

    The stadium is part of the government’s commitment to sports development and infrastructure in the country

    It is expected to host thousands of athletes, officials, journalists, and fans from across Africa and beyond during the Games.

  • Borteyman Sports Complex to be converted to University of Sport for Dev’t – Sports Minister

    Borteyman Sports Complex to be converted to University of Sport for Dev’t – Sports Minister

    Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has revealed the government’s plans to transform the Borteyman Sports Complex into the University of Sport for Development.

    Emphasising the advantages of this modern sports facility, he stressed that it would become a hub of excellence, fostering the growth of young talents and hosting international competitions.

    “The construction of state-of-the-art sports facilities in the country not only provides a platform for athletic excellence but also contributes to the overall infrastructure development, leaving a legacy for generations to come.

    “After Accra 2023, these facilities will serve as centres of excellence, nurturing budding talents, and providing a platform for international competitions,” he said during the commissioning of the Sports Complex on February 13, 2024.

    He added that the facility aligns with the government’s long-term vision of having a University of Sport for Development.

    “This infrastructural investment also aligns with the government’s long-term vision of transforming the entire infrastructure here at Borteyman into a University of Sport for Development.”

    Borteyman Sports Complex boasts four domes, comprising a temporary 500-seater dome for handball, a 1,000-seater aquatic complex, a multipurpose sports hall accommodating 1,000 spectators, and a tennis centre also seating 1,000.

    During the upcoming 13th African Games hosted in Ghana, the Sports Complex is set to accommodate seven competitions: table tennis, handball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, badminton, and the triathlon.

    Scheduled to commence on March 8 and conclude on March 23, 2024, the African Games will showcase the capabilities of this state-of-the-art facility.

  • Ghanaians passion for GPL is still vibrant, they haven’t lost interest – Sports minister

    Ghanaians passion for GPL is still vibrant, they haven’t lost interest – Sports minister


    During a thought leadership event organized by Joy Sports, Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, enthusiastically asserted that Ghanaian football fans have not lost their interest in the Ghana Premier League.

    Despite the declining attendance numbers in recent seasons, Ussif passionately emphasized that this does not indicate a decrease in the nation’s love for the sport.

    To support his claim, Ussif highlighted the significant turnouts witnessed during matches between Hearts of Oak and Great Olympics just two years ago, showcasing the fervor and passion for football among Ghanaians, which he believes remain as vibrant as ever.

    “I refuse to believe that Ghanaians have suddenly lost interest in football. No, the passion is still alive and vibrant.

    “We must, therefore, delve deeper into the underlying factors responsible for this decline and take decisive actions to revive our beloved league,” declared Ussif.

    “Two years ago, the fierce rivalry between Hearts of Oak and Great Olympics drew an overwhelming crowd. Yet, we find ourselves grappling with a disheartening decline in attendance at recent fixtures.”

  • Sports Minister seeks approval from President Akufo-Addo to utilize the $9 million earned from the World Cup

    Sports Minister seeks approval from President Akufo-Addo to utilize the $9 million earned from the World Cup

    Ghana’s Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, has officially requested the Office of the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to consider the utilization of the $9 million earned from the country’s participation in the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar.

    The Minister aims to establish a “precedent” for determining how these funds should be allocated, with a focus on funding preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in 2023 and rehabilitating sports infrastructure at Prampram.

    Mustapha Ussif highlighted the need for executive approval from President Akufo-Addo before proceeding with the planned allocation.

    During a press conference, he expressed the ministry’s intentions, stating, “We are just about going to AFCON. We also want to develop some sports infrastructure.

    “The FA has written that they want to improve the infrastructure at Prampram. It’s something we need to get executive approval for.”

    To ensure transparency and accountability in the use of the funds, the ministry is seeking the necessary approvals from higher authorities before announcing their decisions to the public.

    The main objective is to invest in sports development and infrastructure to enhance the performance of the national teams on the international stage.

    Despite an early exit from the 2022 World Cup, where the Black Stars faced tough competition in a challenging group, the country remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing footballing potential and improving sports facilities for future success.

  • How Ghana plans to spend 2022 World Cup prize money – Sports Minister gives a rundown

    How Ghana plans to spend 2022 World Cup prize money – Sports Minister gives a rundown


    Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, during a press conference on Wednesday, July 25, 2022,disclosed that the Ghanaian government, in partnership with the Ghana Football Association, has intentions to allocate the World Cup prize money towards preparations for the 2023 AFCON and infrastructure development.

    The minister confirmed that the GFA has informed the ministry about this decision, indicating their joint commitment to utilizing the funds for the betterment of football in the country.

    “The GFA has written to the Ministry that FIFA has transferred the prize money of the 2022 World Cup to the FA,” he said.

    He noted that the government and the FA plan have set sight on preparations for AFCON and infrastructure, specifically Ghanaman Soccer Centre in Prampram.

    “We are just about going to AFCON. We also want to improve some sports infrastructure. The FA has written to us that they want to improve the infrastructure at Prampram.”

    Ghana exited the tournament at the group stage, hence, was entitled to a sum of $9.5 million.

    The Black Stars were earlier handed $1.5 million as a preparation fee, taking their World Cup participation benefit to $10.5 million.

  • Govt to renovate Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium

    Govt to renovate Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium

    The Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale is expected to undergo major renovation and maintenance works, the Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif has revealed.

    The sports facility is among the many stadia being worked on to enhance consumer experience to translate into deeper interest in the local sports.

    The Ministry of Sports has embarked on a series of renovation works on the Accra Sports Stadium, Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi and the Essipon Sports Stadium in the Western Region.

    Mr Mustapha Ussif acknowledged the need to refurbish the deteriorating Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium during a visit to the facility over its removal from the national grid.

    Aside from being in a deplorable state, the stadium is indebted to the Northern Electricity Distribution Company Limited (NEDCo) to a tune of GHc466,000.

    The infrastructure’s VVIP session, toilet facilities and popular stands are currently an eye-saw due to rusting and lack or the absence of janitorial services.

    The Confederation of African Football and the Federation of International Football Association has continued to reject international matches scheduled at the facility due to its current condition.  

    It is yet to be made public the amount going to be spent to renovate the stadium. 

    Meanwhile, the Sports Minister has announced that the first phase of renovation and maintenance works on a number of stadia have been completed pending the second phase.

    The Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium was formerly called Tamale Stadium. It was renamed by the Akufo-Addo-led government in 2017 to honour the late Vice President Aliu Mahama under the Kufuor administration.

    The late Alhaji Aliu Mahama lobbied for the stadium’s construction in Tamale as part of the stadia built to host the 2008 Cup of African Nations in Ghana.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Habib Iddrisu, Mustapha Ussif, pose in a picture with Dangote at Mecca

    Habib Iddrisu, Mustapha Ussif, pose in a picture with Dangote at Mecca

    Deputy Majority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu and his colleague Member of Parliament and Minister of Sports, Mustapha Ussif, are in the holy land of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

    The duo were captured in the ihram (traditional Islamic covering for male pilgrims) attending Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) in Mecca.

    Photos being shared on Facebook by the deputy Majority Chief Whip on Facebook, captures the two MPs in the company of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.

    They are captured in the Haram (the immediate precincts of the Kabah) where most pilgrims gather to pray on a daily basis.

    Dangote is wearing dark shades and holding a face mask with Habib and Ussif standing to his right side.

    Aside the two MPs, Tamale North lawmaker, Alhassan Suhuyini has also been spotted separately in Mecca performing the Umrah rites. Alhassan Tampuli, Farouk Aliu Mahama and Ibrahim Murtala-Mohammed are also in Saudi.

    Ramadan is a busy season for the cities of Mecca and Medina, as people throng in from across the world to undertake the Umrah in the blessed season of worship.

  • Akufo-Addo has made unprecedented investments in sports facilities – Minister for Youth and Sports

    Akufo-Addo has made unprecedented investments in sports facilities – Minister for Youth and Sports

    Contrary to assertions made by some people that the government has not done enough, Mustapha Ussif, Minister of Youth and Sports, asserts that President Akufo-Addo’s administration has made unprecedented investments in the development of sports facilities.

    Addressing the media in Ho and Koforidua after inspecting on-going construction works on the Ho and Koforidua multi-purpose sports centres, Mustapha Ussif provided data on a number of renovation works and new sports facilities the Akufo-Addo government has invested in,to buttress his point of unrivalled investment by the government, running into millions of US Dollars.

    “There has been recent talk of lack of Government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure in the country, but the data and incontrovertible evidence on the ground rather points to the contrary, especially under the Government of His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo,” Mustapha Ussif told the media.

    “Until the Government of Nana Akufo-Addo assumed office, our national stadia in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale and Essipong were deteriorating, as they had not received any serious attention for some time. However, in the past six years under this government, these facilities have undergone major renovation works, which are continuing, to bring these facilities up to standard.

    “Also, this Government has invested massively in community sports infrastructure by building close to 100 astro-turfs across the country. Before the Government of President Akufo-Addo, there were only two public astro turfs in the country. To have close to 100 astro turfs, fairly distributed across communities in the country, is a remarkable feat never seen before, which demonstrates a government committed to developing sports infrastructure.”

    The Sports Minister continued: “In addition to this, the government has also embarked on the unprecedented nationwide development of multipurpose facilities across the country – that is the 10 National Youth Centres. This audacious, national scale sports infrastructure development has never been witnessed in our country before.”

    Concerns have been raised over the slow pace of work for the completion of the 10 multi-purpose sports centres, but the Minister reiterated government’s commitment to completing a project it conceived, beginning with six, which he said are on Phase 2.

    “Even though the project (10 multi-purpose stadia) is behind schedule due to several factors, government’s commitment to completing it is never in doubt,” Mustapha Ussif assured.

    “We have focused on completing six of the youth centres as soon as possible and work is progressing steadily, as the Ho Stadium shows. Indeed, no one can be more committed to seeing the completion of these projects than the very government which conceived the idea and started it.”

    The Sports Minister added that in addition to the on-going renovation of the national stadia, the community astro turfs and the 10 multi-purpose sports centres, government is also investing heavily in sports infrastructure at the University of Ghana and Borteyman, in readiness to host the African Games.

    “Government also decided to bid and host the African Games in Accra, in order to offer the country an opportunity to develop more sports infrastructure. Currently, construction works are ongoing at the Borteyman Stadium as well as at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra. For these projects alone, Government has committed over $200 million.

    “This is unprecedented in our nation’s history, and this is a clear demonstration of our government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure.”

    The Minister added that government’s investment on sports infrastructure he has outlined, excludes the government’s collosal funding of national sports teams, especially football, which runs into millions of US Dollars.

  • GFA to submit final report on new Black Stars coach next week – Sports Minister 

    GFA to submit final report on new Black Stars coach next week – Sports Minister 

    Minister for Youth and Sports Mustapha Ussif, has revealed that the new Black Stars head coach is close to being appointed by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    The senior national team is currently without a substantive head coach following the resignation of Otto Addo after Black Stars’ early elimination at the 2022 World Cup campaign in Qatar, where the team exited in the group stage.

    Speaking before the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament on Tuesday, Ussif said the GFA will submit a report by next on the next appointment.

    According to him, the Ghana FA is expected to present a final report to his ministry on who they have decided to hand the role.

    “The Ghana Football Association is in the process of hiring a new coach and I have personally engaged them and they have indicated that a final report will be submitted to the Ministry possibly this week or next week,” he said.

    “I know we have an assignment in March this year and we need to have a new head coach, so he can start preparing for the AFCON qualifiers.

    “The country should be assured that the GFA is working to ensure that we get a replacement.”

    The Black Stars will be back in action in March when the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers resume with a doubleheader against Angola.

  • We saved $3m of Black Stars budget – Sports Minister reveals after World Cup 2022

    Mustapha Ussif, the Minister of Youth and Sports, has disclosed that his department spent $5 million of the $8.16 million allotted for Ghana’s participation in the group stages of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

    He explained that, the expenditure covered appearance fees, per diems, flight arrangements, medicals, equipment, logistics and hospitality.

    Speaking on the floor of Parliament, the minister said “out of estimated budget of ($8,166,200.00 for the tournament,) our total expenditure for our group stage participation amounted to $5, 071, 840.36.”

    He however noted that “the reason for the surplus of over $3m, after our exit at the group stage, is as a result of the Ministry’s prudent management of resources, as well as the Ministry’s decision to negotiate a qualification bonus to the next round, instead of paying winning bonus per match.”

    “What this means is that, in spite of the Black Stars defeating South Korea 3:2 in our second group match, we did not pay winning bonuses for that win. However, we would have paid qualification bonus to the team had they been able to progress from the group to the next stage of the World Cup, regardless of the results of our group matches.

    “Mr Speaker, this measure we have adopted is aimed at motivating the team to go all out and progress from one stage of competitions to the other, and also ensure prudent management of resources.

    “Even though we would have been very happy for the Black Stars to progress for us to pay the qualification bonus, this measure has also saved the nation some money, which will go back to our continuous sports development,” he added.

    On December 2, 2022, Ghana was eliminated from the World Cup after losing to Uruguay 2-0 in their final group match.

  • Ghana’s Sports Minister reveals amount spent on Black Stars at World Cup 2022

    The Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has revealed the Black Stars spent $5,171,040 out of the $8,166,200 budgeted for the World Cup in Qatar.

    At the floor of Parliament, the Member of Parliament for Yagaba-Kubori indicated the expenses covered the team’s appearance fee, per diem, flight arrangement and others.

    The Black Stars were eliminated after the first round of the tournament following a 2-0 defeat to Uruguay.

    After defeating South Korea in their second group game, the Black Stars needed a draw or win against Uruguay to advance to the last 16 stage.

    But the team failed to negotiate for points against their ‘enemies’ Uruguay to progress.


    Addressing parliament on the expenditure at the tournament, he said, “Prior to Ghana’s participation at this World Cup I informed this house that our estimated budget was $8,166,200.” Out of this estimated budget, Mr. Speaker, our total expenditure for the group stage participation amounted to $5,171,840. This expense covered the appearance fee, per diem, flight arrangements, medical expenses, equipment, logistics, and hospitality.

    Mustapha Ussif added that due to strict measures, the country was able to save $3 million after Ghana’s exit from the group stage “Mr Speaker, the reason for the surplus of three million dollars after our exit from the group stages is as a result of the ministry’s prudent management of resources as well as the ministry’s position to negotiate on qualification bonus for the next round instead of paying winning bonuses per match.

    “What means is that despite the Black Stars winning against South Korea we did not pay any winning bonus because we had negotiated for a qualification bonus.”

    He thanked Ghanaians for coming together to support the Black Stars during the tournament.

  • Qatar 2022: You risk going to jail if you resell match tickets – Sports Minister warns Ghana supporters

    The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has warned that supporters who resell Ghana match tickets could face court action in Qatar.

    According to him, some people are in police custody facing criminal charges for the resale of tickets in the FIFA World Cup.

    “The Police and the various agencies are always at the stadiums monitoring things, we have toiled to get you tickets, we don’t want any of you to go out and sell the tickets we have given you,” Ussif said during a meeting with the supporters at their base Doha, Almadaen Complex.

    Qatar 2022: You risk going to jail if you resell match tickets - Sports Minister warns Ghana supporters

    He revealed that Ghana Mission to Qatar has received evidence of people facing court action, though he did not state categorically if they are Ghanaians.

    “So far, the authorities have arrested some people and taken them to court, they have sent the evidence to the Ambassador, we don’t want anybody to fall into this.

    Rumours emerged last week Thursday that police arrested some football fans for selling match tickets between $200 and $300.

  • Ministry of Sports, Ghana Mission in Qatar mobilise over 1000 Ghanaians to cheer on Black Stars

    The Ministry of Youth and Sports, in conjunction with the Ghana Embassy in Qatar, has successfully mobilised over 1000 Ghanaians and Africans based in Qatar to cheer on the Black Stars at the ongoing World Cup.

    The smart move is a realisation of a plan the Minister for Youth Sports, Mustapha Ussif, told Parliament ahead of the start of the tournament, would be an innovative fan mobilisation strategy due to the inability of the government to fund supporters from Ghana as a result of the economic challenge the country finds itself in.

    To complement the few fans who the Ministry intended to facilitate their trip to Qatar through corporate support, the Minister assured his Ministry was mobilising Ghanaians and Africans to offer the Black Stars strong support.

    Ahead of Ghana’s opening group match on Tuesday, the Ministry and the Ghana mission successfully mobilised over 1000 Ghanaians and Africans and provided them with match tickets and apparel in Ghanaian colours.

    The mobilised fans, together with the few from Ghana, set the stadium agog as the Black Stars battled Portugal.

    Mustapha Ussif, in the company of the Ghana Ambassador to Qatar, met the supporters and thanked them for availing themselves to cheer on the Black Stars.

    The Ministry will continue the mobilisation effort in upcoming games against South Korea and Uruguay.

    Source: Ghanaweb 

  • ‘Why should they spend more time in shops instead of betting online’ – Sports Minister to youth

    Mustapha Ussif, the sports minister, has observed that young people in Ghana spend their time gambling rather than engaging in worthwhile activities that promote their personal development.

    Instead of betting online, he lamented the plight of young people at numerous betting shops and centers.

    What he said was, “What I’ve seen is that the youth are congregating at these stores the whole day, becoming really addicted to gaming, instead of using their time for very useful pursuits.”

    “My main concern is that they should be spending more time in those places because you may even be doing something worthwhile today and betting online,”
    The website asaaseradio.com quotes Ussif.

    The betting economy in Ghana has become a very lucrative one as the youth of Ghana have adopted the practice as their dependent source of income.

    Some have attributed the high patronage to the high levels of unemployment in the country.

  • Sam Johnson backs Sports Minister’s decision not to disclose World Cup budget to Ghanaians

    Former Black Stars defender, Sam Johnson has backed the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ decision not to disclose the budget for the 2022 World Cup to the public until the tournament is over.

    The Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif earlier said they have already budged for Ghana’s entire campaign in Qatar but he can not disclose the details to Ghanaians.

    “We have budgeted for the entire tournament and where we are going to reach will determine how much we will going to spend. So until we finish the tournament, we can’t tell you (Ghanaians) how much we are going to spend but we have a budget estimated for the entire tournament,” Mustapha Ussif said as quoted by JoySports.

    Mustapha Ussif has received a lot of public backlash after his statement but Sam Johnson has jumped to his defense as he claims disclosing the budget will cause an uproar because of the economic conditions.

    “Everyone knows the situation at hand in the country, there is economic crisis, so if they make the budget public I think it is going to disorganize everything.”

    “We are in difficult times as a nation, for me, to play safe, I think they will prefer not to mention but if they go there and perform and the budget is disclosed there wouldn’t any complain,” he said as quoted by footballghana.com.

    The Black Stars will begin their 2022 FIFA World Cup with an opening game against Portugal on Thursday, November 24 at the 974 Stadium in Doha, Qatar.

     

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • I know the budget for 2022 World Cup but I won’t tell you – Sports Minister to Ghanaians

    Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif has said that the government has budgeted for Ghana’s campaign in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar but he can not disclose the details to Ghanaians.

    According to Mustapha Ussif, they have the budget for the entire tournament, and where the Black Stars will reach will determine the amount of money they will spend in Qatar.

    The Minister stated that Ghanaians will only know about the budget for the 2022 FIFA World Cup when the Black Stars‘ campaign end.

    “We have budgeted for the entire tournament and where we are going to reach will determine how much we will going to spend.”

    “So until we finish the tournament, we can’t tell you (Ghanaians) how much we are going to spend but we have a budget estimated for the entire tournament,” Mustapha Ussif said as quoted by JoySports.

    The Black Stars will begin their 2022 FIFA World Cup with an opening game against Portugal on Thursday, November 24 at the 974 Stadium in Doha, Qatar.

  • Qatar 2022: Each Black Stars player to be paid US$100,000 appearance fee?

    “What we have indicated to them is that we are not going to increase what they had in Brazil. So, whatever they had in Brazil stays because of the current economic circumstances,” this is a comment attributed to Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif.

    The Minister was speaking in an interview about the preparations of the team for the upcoming Qatar 2022 World Cup.

    2014 demand for US$100,000 appearance fee

    A March 13, 2014 story by the Daily Graphic reported that the Blacks Stars had demanded that they are paid $100,000 (GH₵254,250) per player in appearance fee at the Brazil 2014 World Cup, citing an Allsports.com.gh report.

    The fee is a 25% raise on the $75,000 paid in the 2010 World Cup and was made as part of the team’s petition to its management committee during discussions in Montenegro last week, the report stated.

    In 2006, the team’s first appearance at the Mundial, they earned $50,000 by way of appearance fees.

    In the same petition, the Black Stars told the Ghana Football Association (GFA) that they wanted their winning bonuses to be paid in dollars instead of the cedis the government has proposed.

    Subsequent events led to the players mounting a revolt that forced the government to fly US$3 million in cash to Brazil to settle their fees.

    Government to reveal the budget for 2022 World Cup after team exits – Sports Minister

    Mustapha Ussif also disclosed that the government has budgeted for Ghana’s campaign but that he cannot disclose the details to Ghanaians.

    According to the Sports Minister, they have the budget for the entire tournament, and where the Black Stars will reach will determine the amount of money they will spend in Qatar.

    The Minister stated that Ghanaians will only know about the budget for the 2022 FIFA World Cup when the Black Stars’ campaign ends.

    “We have budgeted for the entire tournament and where we are going to reach will determine how much we will going to spend.”

    “So until we finish the tournament, we can’t tell you (Ghanaians) how much we are going to spend but we have a budget estimated for the entire tournament,” Mustapha Ussif said as quoted by JoySports.

    The Black Stars will begin their 2022 FIFA World Cup with an opening game against Portugal on Thursday, November 24 at the 974 Stadium in Doha, Qatar.

     

    Source:

  • Budget for Black Stars will be made public after 2022 World Cup – Sports Minister

    Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif has said the incentives and other bonuses of the Black Stars will be made public when the team lands in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup.

    The packages and budget for the team ahead of the Mundial is yet to be made known by the Ghana Football Association [GFA] and the Sports Ministry.

    However, Hon. Ussif speaking in an interview shared that negotiations have been held with the players and a budget has been made available to cater to the team’s needs throughout the tournament.

    According to him, the Black Stars’ bonuses will remain the same as what they revived in Brazil eight years ago due to the current economic situation in the country.

    “We have negotiated with the Black Stars on all their incentives as far as this World Cup is concerned but once we get to the tournament, we will make it public to Ghanaians,” Mr. Ussif said during the Walk of the Legends event over the weekend.

    “Everybody will know how much the Black Stars are going to take. What we have indicated to them is that we are not going to increase what they had in Brazil, so whatever they had in Brazil stays because of the current economic circumstances.

    “We have budgeted for the entire tournament, and where we are going to reach will determine how much we are going to spend, so until we finish the tournament we can’t tell you how much we’re going to spend. But we have a budget estimated for the entire tournament.”

    Ghana will face a difficult test in Qatar, having been paired alongside Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea in Group H.

    The Black Stars will open the tournament against Cristiano Ronaldo and co. before taking on South Korea and will close the group with a clash against Uruguay.

    It will be recalled that Ghana’s participation in the 2014 World Cup was blighted by issues of delayed bonuses, with players even threatening a boycott before the country’s final group game against Portugal.

    There was also an episode where players clashed with management members and coaches, as the team crashed out at the group stages in Brazil.

    Ghana will open camp on November 10 at Abu Dhabi and will take on Switzerland in their final preparatory game on November 17.

    Source: Football Ghana

  • We have budgeted for the entire 2022 FIFA World Cup tournament – Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif

    The Minister of Youth and Sports in Ghana, Mustapha Ussif has disclosed that his Ministry has budgeted for the entire 2022 FIFA World Cup tournament duration.

    Due to this, the Minister insists that he cannot disclose the budget for the Black Stars until the national team’s campaign at the mundial ends.

    “We have budgeted for the entire tournament and where we are going to reach will determine how much we are going to spend.

    “So until we finish the tournament we can’t tell you how much we are going to spend but we have a budget estimated for the entire tournament,” Mustapha Ussif said while speaking on the sidelines of the Walk of Legends organised by the Ghana FA over the past weekend.

    At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Ghana has been pitted in Group H to face Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea.

    The Black Stars will play their first group game on November 24 against Portugal.

    Source: Footballghana

  • 2022 World Cup: We are doing everything possible to make Black Stars campaign successful – Sports Minister

    Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, says his Ministry will do everything possible to make Black Stars’ journey to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar a successful one.

    Black Stars make a return to the tournament after missing out on the 2018 edition in Russia and have been drawn in Group H alongside Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay.

    Ghana will take on Portugal in their first game on November 24 before playing South Korea and Uruguay on November 28 and December 2 respectively.

    “We are doing everything that is possible to make our campaign and the journey to the World Cup successful. We have learnt from our mistakes and we don’t want this Qatar [trip] to be anything bad,” Mustapha Ussif said as quoted by Citi Sports.

    “We want to ensure that we go to Doha and come back home successfully, without any problem.”

    Black Stars will play Switzerland in an International friendly on November 17, before travelling to Qatar for the World Cup.

    Source: Football Ghana

  • We are considering to bid hosting 2025 Africa Cup of Nations – Ghana Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif

    Ghana’s Youth and Sports Minster, Mustapha Ussif, has hinted that the country is considering bidding for the rights to host the 2025 Total Energies African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    Guinea, who won the rights to host the continent’s most prestigious tournament has lost its rights after the Confederations of African Football [CAF] stripped the West African nation of the hosting rights for the competition.

    The continent’s football governing body has gone ahead to open bids to host the tournament.

    Hon. Ussifspeaking in an interview hinted that there have been discussions to decide whether Ghana would like to co-host the tournament.

    “There’s a discussion that Ghana should bid with the likes of Nigeria and Benin,” the sector minister told Citi Sports during the National Team Day Walk with the Legends event put together to raise awareness of the Black Stars’ upcoming campaign at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

    “We are still considering it. We have not taken a decision yet but there is that discussion that we should get sister countries so that we can put in that bid,” he added.

    Interested countries have up to November 11 to officially declare their interest to host the 2025 AFCON and November 16 is the deadline for submission of related documents.

    The last time Ghana hosted the AFCON was in 2008, where the Black Stars finished 3rd.

    Source: Footballghana

  • Ghana’s Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif confident Black Stars will come good before World Cup

    Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif believes the Black Stars will be ready for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    The Black Stars engaged in two international friendlies against Brazil and Nicaragua during the break.

    Ghana lost 3-0 to Brazil but recovered to beat Nicaragua 1-0 on Tuesday in Spain through a strike from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.

    A chunk of Ghanaian fans were unhappy about the performances of the Black Stars in the two friendlies played.

    But according to the Sports Minister, the Black Stars team will be in a good shape before the commencement of the World Cup.

    “This is a process, we are building a team and I know that by the time we get to Abu Dhabi where we are going to have our final game, the team would have been so good and Ghanaians would see the difference,” he told Max TV.

    Meanwhile, Mustapha Ussif was left to rue missed chances in the Black Stars narrow win over Nicaragua.

    “We were expecting more goals in the game but at the end of the day we created a lot of chances but couldn’t convert them into goals,”

  • We were expecting more goals – Sports Minster on Ghana’s game against Nicaragua

    Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif has disclosed that he was expecting the Black Stars to score more goals in their game against Nicaragua on Tuesday, September 2, 2022.

    A goal from Abdul Fatawu Issahaku turned out to be the winner against the North American side.

    Speaking after the game, the Minister for Sports lamented the Black Stars’ missed chances in the game.

     

    “We were expecting more goals in the game but at the end of the day we created a lot of chances but couldn’t convert them into goals,” Mustapha Ussif said in an interview with Max TV.

    He added that the Black Stars would continue to strive to build a formidable team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

    “This is a process, we are building a team and I know that by the time we get to Abu Dhabi where we are going to have our final game, the team would have been so good and Ghanaians would see the difference,” he stated.

    Source; Ghanaweb

     

  • Strengthening party-gov’t relations: Sports Minister visits NPP headquarters

    The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has paid a visit to the National Headquarters of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) as part of efforts to strengthen the link between the government and the party.

    It also forms part of the initiatives to bridge the gap between government appointees and party officers in the party’s quest to mobilise its rank and file for a third consecutive electoral victory in 2024 and to “break the eight” as the popular mantra goes.

    During the interactions, Mr Ussif said nearly 75 per cent of the country’s 31.8 million population fell within the youthful bracket, which fuelled government’s commitment to implement several youth-centred interventions.

    Interventions

    He mentioned that interventions such as YouStart, Green Ghana, various modules of the Youth Employment Agency and the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (COTVET) had led to employment, training, capacity building and the provision of financial support to the country’s youth.

    The Youth and Sports Minister, therefore, encouraged the party to liaise with the appropriate government officials and agencies supervising these youth- centred interventions to ensure their success.

    Mr Ussif further encouraged the party to emulate the youth structures of South Africa’s ruling African National Congress which, he said, had been crucial to the party’s long stay in power.

    Way forward

    The General Secretary of the Party, Justin Frimpong Kodua, who received the minister on behalf of party headquarters, reiterated the point that this initiative of holding regular party-government meetings would be replicated across the country, particularly in the regional capitals.

    That, he said, was to provide a platform for government appointees, particularly ministers of state and chief executive officers (CEOs) to interact with party officers and grassroots.

    As part of this initiative, the party headquarters have witnessed visits over the previous weeks by some government appointees, including the CEO of Ghana Water Company Limited, Dr Clifford Braimah, and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor.

    Other appointees are expected to have their turn in the coming weeks.

  • Strengthening party-govt relations; Sports Minister visits NPP headquarters

    In an effort to deepen the relationship between the government and the party, Mustapha Ussif, the minister of youth and sports, recently paid a visit to the NPP’s national headquarters.

    It also fits into the party’s efforts to mobilize its membership for a third straight electoral victory in 2024 and to “break the eight,” as the catchphrase goes, by bridging the gap between government appointees and party officers.

    During the conversations, Mr. Ussif said that approximately 75% of the 31.8 million people in the nation were under the age of 25, which fueled the government’s resolve to enact many youth-focused reforms.

    Interventions

    He mentioned that interventions such as YouStart, Green Ghana, various modules of the Youth Employment Agency and the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (COTVET) had led to employment, training, capacity building and the provision of financial support to the country’s youth.

    The Youth and Sports Minister, therefore, encouraged the party to liaise with the appropriate government officials and agencies supervising these youth- centred interventions to ensure their success.

    Mr Ussif further encouraged the party to emulate the youth structures of South Africa’s ruling African National Congress which, he said, had been crucial to the party’s long stay in power.

    Way forward

    The General Secretary of the Party, Justin Frimpong Kodua, who received the minister on behalf of party headquarters, reiterated the point that this initiative of holding regular party-government meetings would be replicated across the country, particularly in the regional capitals.

    That, he said, was to provide a platform for government appointees, particularly ministers of state and chief executive officers (CEOs) to interact with party officers and grassroots.

    As part of this initiative, the party headquarters have witnessed visits over the previous weeks by some government appointees, including the CEO of Ghana Water Company Limited, Dr Clifford Braimah, and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor.

    Other appointees are expected to have their turn in the coming weeks.

  • We have a plan to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup – Sports Minister

    The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif has disclosed that key stakeholders in the football industry have a plan for Black Stars to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    He stated that Ghana will prove itself as a powerhouse in African football by attempting to win the World Cup once again in Qatar.

    Speaking at a press briefing after the arrival of the World Cup trophy in Accra last Saturday, the sports minister noted with optimism that the plan will work out for the Black Stars to shine at the tournament.

     

    “As a football powerhouse of Africa, Ghana is hopeful and believing that Insha Allah, come to November-December, we will be bringing the trophy back here to Ghana as the champions of the football family,” he said.

    “We are very hopeful and we have a plan with the key stakeholders of the sports industry to put our plans together, so we have the belief that Insha Alla in December, the Stars will shine in Qatar”.

    The Black Stars will play at their 4th World Cup in history Qatar after missing the 2018 edition in Russia

    Ghana has been pitted in Group H at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and would face Portugal on November 24, South Korea (November 28) and Uruguay (December 2) when the tournament commences.

    Source; Ghanaweb

  • I have no doubts Black Stars will win the World Cup – Sports Minister

    Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif says he is confident the Black Stars will emerge as the champions of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    Ghana, having missed out on the 2018 Mundial in Russia have made a return to the global showpiece.

    The Black Stars after a 0-0 game at the Baba Yara Stadium in the first leg of the playoffs secured a 1-1 drawn game at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to propel them to play at the World Cup.

    With the country’s best performance coming in 2010 in South Africa where the Black Stars played in the quarterfinals and exiting the group phase in Brazil in 2014, Mustapha Ussif reiterated that he is adamant that the Black Stars will win the ultimate.

    “As football powerhouse in Africa, I know the Black Stars will bring the World Cup trophy back to Ghana by winning it Qatar,” he said at the World Cup trophy tour in Accra.

    Ghana, who are in Group H will open their campaign against Portugal on November 24 at Stadium 974 in Doha.

    Four days later, the Black Stars return to action with a clash with South Korea at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.

    Ghana will wrap up its group stage adventure with its much-anticipated encounter with Uruguay at Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah.

    The World Cup is scheduled to kick off from November 20 to December 18.

    Source: Ghanaweb

     

  • GPL Health Walk takes place on Saturday

    The Ghana Premier League Health Walk from Accra Mall to the Accra Sports Stadium will come off this Saturday, September 3rd, 2022.

    Participants will converge at the Accra Mall at 5:30 AM.

    The walk is to drum home the need to stay healthy by exercising.

    Personalities expected to grace the occasion are Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, GFA President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, Director General of the National Sports Authority, SWAG President and members as well as the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), Get Vim, Urban Sports Champions, Sports and Leisure, BetPawa /Guinness officials and President of Women In Sports Association (WISA)

    The Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) is fully supporting the program and has urged all clubs including female clubs and juvenile clubs to take part to usher in the new football season.

    Tempo, the sponsor of the ball to be used for the league are also supporting the Health Walk as well as others who want Ghana Football to grow.

     

     

  • Ghana’s Sports Minister receives customized jersey from Ajax star Mohammed Kudus

    Ghana’s Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif received a customized Ajax jersey from midfielder Mohammed Kudus

    The Black Stars winger through his team presented the jersey to the Sports Minister at his office here in Accra.

    Mustapha Ussif was very appreciative in his tweet after receiving the jersey from the Ghana international

    “I am grateful to @AFCAjax and Ghanaian international @KudusMohammedGH for presenting me with his club shirt. Best wishes for the upcoming season”, he said in a tweet monitored by GHANAsoccernet.com

     

    Image

    Mohammed Kudus has returned to Ajax for preseason and is currently in good form.

     

     

    The 21-year-old has scored two goals in two games in preseason for the club.

    Source: GhanaSoccernet