GFA boss defends Startimes deal

Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kwesi Nyantekyi has defended the deal signed between the football controlling body in Ghana and television giant StarTimes.

The FA recently signed a 10-year deal worth $17.9m with the Chinese company, a deal that compels Startimes to broadcast the Ghana Premier League, the FA Cup, the Gala, the Women’s Football League, and the National Juvenile League.

However, the FA has been criticised by a section of the Ghanaian media over the length of the deal, with critics convinced it would not inure to the benefit of the country.

But Mr Nyantekyi believed it was a good deal signed by the GFA.

Speaking at the Ghanaman Soccer School of Excellence, Prampram, on Monday, December 12, he said: “In our new television deal with Startimes, let me announce first that we will continue to make the game available to wider audiences while seeking financial sponsorship to boost support for our clubs.

He added that StarTimes was set to spend an additional $36m in the production, promotion, and the marketing of the matches.

On his part, the Chief Executive Officer for Aduana Stars Football Club, Albert Commey, highlighted the significance of the StarTimes deal, saying: “The StarTimes deal is a positive development for football in the country because when you have a TV sponsor, it tells potential sponsors that there would be an opportunity to make their brands visible all over the world. That in itself will draw other sponsors to the table. The ordinary supporter will also get the opportunity to see the games.”

Dreams FC administrative manager Ameenu Shardow noted that the deal was best for Ghana football and believed the FA should be commended for securing such a deal.

“I was overly happy with the deal even before we touched on it at Congress today. The infrastructural component where we get to benefit from turfs all over the nation is one that we should all savour.”