US Ambassador urges stronger action against sports-related human trafficking

The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Rolf Olson has called for intensified efforts to safeguard young athletes from human trafficking schemes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking at the National Forum on Trafficking Through Sports held at the ISSER Conference Hall at the University of Ghana, Legon, on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Ambassador warned that many aspiring athletes are increasingly becoming targets of criminal networks operating under the guise of offering international sports opportunities.

According to him, global sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup often present opportunities for traffickers to lure unsuspecting individuals with false promises of contracts, trials, and travel abroad.

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“Programs like this reflect our shared commitment to combating human trafficking and ensuring that the legitimate aspirations of young athletes are not exploited by criminal networks,” he stated.

Ambassador Olson cautioned the public to be wary of individuals or agents who claim they can secure visas or guarantee travel arrangements for the tournament.

He emphasised that no intermediary can influence visa decisions, urging prospective travellers to adhere strictly to official application processes.

PAH/JE

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