Ghana Sets Sights on 2026 World Cup with high-level oversight committee

Ghana has taken a major step towards its fifth World Cup appearance since 2006, with the inauguration of an 11-member Ministerial Oversight Committee tasked with supervising the country's preparation and participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The committee, chaired by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, was sworn in at a ceremony held at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, November 26.

In his inaugural address, Debrah called on members to approach their mandate with utmost integrity and commitment, ensuring effective coordination and execution of plans ahead of the tournament.

"Look beyond football and explore wider opportunities the World Cup presents," Debrah urged the committee, emphasising the need to capitalize on the global event to showcase Ghana's capabilities and potential.

The committee comprises Stan Xoese Dogbe from the Office of the President, Sports and Recreation Minister Hon Kofi Adams, Foreign Affairs Minister Hon Samuel O Ablakwa, Youth Development Minister Hon George Opare, Tourism and Culture Deputy Minister Hon Yusif Jajah, Finance Ministry Deputy Minister Ampem Nyarkoh, GFA Chairman Kurt Okraku, Deputy National Security Coordinator Elizabeth Yankah, former Footballer Abedi Pele, Sports Ministry Chief Director Mrs Wilhelmina Asamoah, and one other member yet to be decided.

Ghana secured its World Cup ticket with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Comoros on October 12, 2025, setting the stage for an electrifying campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Meanwhile, the government has allocated GH¢150 million to support the Black Stars' participation in the tournament, underscoring its commitment to sports development and national representation on the global stage.

The funds, announced by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson during the presentation of the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament, are expected to facilitate the team's preparations, logistics, and participation in the prestigious event.

Undoubtedly, as Ghana prepares to take on the world, the Ministerial Oversight Committee is positioned to play a crucial role in ensuring the country's successful participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Story by Lawrence Odoom