“Our per diem came from FA not Sports Ministry”- Black Starlets Coach
Head coach of Ghana’s national U-17 team, the Black Starlets, Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, has clarified that the per diem paid to his players and technical staff during the WAFU Zone B U-17 Championship was provided by the Ghana Football Association (GFA), not the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.
Ogum’s clarification comes amid discussions surrounding financial support for national teams at various levels.
Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM, Ogum explained that the GFA took the initiative to reward the team for their commendable performance at the tournament, where Ghana finished as runners-up after losing to Côte d’Ivoire on penalties.
“The per diem for the team did not come from the Sports Ministry. It came from the Ghana Football Association,” he revealed.
The coach added that he personally confirmed the source of the allowance with the team’s management committee chairman.
“I personally asked the Chairman of the team and he told me it is from the FA and they wanted to appreciate us for our performance. Everyone was happy with it,” Ogum said.
He further expressed optimism that the Sports Ministry would also fulfill its financial responsibilities to the team in due course.
“I’m sure that of the Ministry will also come,” he added.
His remarks highlight the GFA’s proactive effort to motivate the young players and technical staff following their impressive showing in the regional tournament.