Kurt Okraku Questions Focus on Black Stars Budget Transparency
Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has addressed increasing public demands for the disclosure of the Black Stars’ budget, stating that he has no objections to transparency but believes football is being unfairly singled out in the national conversation.
The issue has intensified in recent months because the senior national team receives government funding, prompting calls for greater clarity on how public funds are spent. Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams has also set a precedent by publicly outlining team budgets ahead of matches, a move that has reportedly caused unease among some officials within the football governing body.
Speaking on Asaase Radio, Okraku made it clear that he is not opposed to publishing the team’s expenditure but questioned the selective scrutiny directed at football.
“I don’t have any problem with making the Black Stars budget public. But why are we not asking every sector to also make their budgets public, and why only Black Stars? Why create confusion where there’s no need for confusion? The GFA is a private entity,” he said.
The GFA boss stressed that accountability should be a broad national standard, especially for all sectors that receive state funding, rather than focusing solely on football. He maintained that the association operates within established financial and administrative frameworks while continuing to invest in national team activities and grassroots development programmes.
Debates over Black Stars expenditure have historically resurfaced during major tournaments, with sections of the public demanding transparency on spending and value for money. Okraku reiterated that the GFA remains committed to responsible governance while balancing public interest with institutional independence.
Meanwhile, the Government of Ghana has reportedly earmarked about 150 million Ghana cedis (approximately 13.7 million U.S. dollars) to support preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Black Stars are scheduled to face Panama, England and Croatia in the group stage as they prepare for their global campaign.
