Government cannot fund Ghanaian clubs in Africa – Sports Minister

Sports Minister Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed says it is highly unlikely for the state to sponsor Ghanaian clubs participating in African club competition.

The Ghana FA President Kwesi Nyantakyi has called on government to make significant financial contributions to clubs who will be representing the nation in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.

AshantiGold and Medeama will be Ghana’s representatives in the Champions League and Confederation Cup respectively.

But Sports Minister Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed who budget has experienced an over 40% cut for 2016, admits there will be a difficulty for the state to commit funds to support clubs in Africa but says the Ministry will be assisting the GFA to raise sponsorship from corporate bodies.

“Let is not paint a picture as if it is the sole responsibility of government to provide funding,” he said.

“The Ministry is ready to assist in helping secure corporate sponsorships from the clubs.

“We intend meeting the GFA to look at ways by which we can assist to help the clubs raise funds from corporate bodies.”

Ghanaian clubs have been unable to compete favourably in Africa Inter-Club competitions mainly due to their weakened position in terms of resources as against their peers mostly from North Africa.

Most clubs from North Africa and several other Francophone African countries are heavily funded by their governments when competing in Africa.