President Kurt Okraku, head of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), stands firm in his conviction that Ghanaian football can undergo a renaissance. Despite facing substantial public backlash in the wake of the Black Stars’ disappointing performance at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Okraku maintains that reviving the sport’s former prominence will require a concerted effort, with the FA receptive to innovative strategies for transformation.
Addressing attendees at the Meet the Press event in Kumasi, Okraku underscored the FA’s willingness to assume responsibility for the state of football in the country, while urging all stakeholders to contribute to its advancement. “We need the collective effort of all and sundry. We take responsibility as leaders of the association but will count on the collective ideas to continue to transform the sport,” Okraku asserted.
He reiterated the FA’s unyielding dedication to restoring the lost glory and fervor for football among Ghanaians, stressing the importance of collaboration from all sectors of society. Okraku emphasized the FA’s readiness to listen to diverse perspectives and ideas, highlighting the significance of open dialogue and engagement with stakeholders. “The FA is very much committed to bringing back the lost glory and the passion of our people. All our publics must stand shoulder to shoulder with us. In good times and in bad times, we are ready to listen to the other minds. We have to let people speak to us and tell us what they think.”
Furthermore, Okraku expressed optimism about the future of Ghanaian football, citing ongoing initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent and improving infrastructure across the country. He emphasized the importance of long-term planning and investment in grassroots development to ensure sustained success for Ghanaian football on the international stage.
In response to concerns about transparency and accountability within the FA, Okraku assured the public of the organization’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of governance. He pledged to foster a culture of transparency and accountability within the FA, with measures in place to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of Ghanaian football.
Okraku also addressed the need for improved relations with corporate sponsors and international football federations to secure vital resources and opportunities for Ghanaian football. He emphasized the FA’s commitment to forging mutually beneficial partnerships with corporate entities and leveraging international networks to promote the growth and development of the sport in Ghana.
Looking ahead, Okraku outlined key priorities for the FA, including enhancing the quality of domestic competitions, improving coaching standards, and fostering greater inclusivity and diversity within the sport. He stressed the FA’s determination to overcome challenges and seize opportunities to elevate Ghanaian football to new heights of success.
In closing, Okraku called for unity and solidarity among all stakeholders in Ghanaian football, urging everyone to rally behind the FA’s efforts to rejuvenate the sport. He expressed confidence in the collective strength and resilience of the Ghanaian football community, affirming that together, they can overcome obstacles and realize the full potential of football in Ghana.
