2026 World Cup Push Begins As Govt Sets Up 11 – Member Oversight Committee

By: Nana Kwasi Roka

Government has inaugurated an 11-member Ministerial Oversight Committee to spearhead Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, signalling a strategic, whole-of-government approach toward the global tournament.

The committee was unveiled on Wednesday, November 26, at the Jubilee House by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, who urged members to execute their mandate with integrity, discipline and a strong sense of national responsibility.
He emphasized that beyond football, the World Cup presents major opportunities in tourism, trade, culture and diplomacy that Ghana must fully tap into.

Ghana qualified for the tournament after edging Comoros 1 – 0 in Accra on October 12, sealing the Black Stars’ fifth World Cup appearance since their 2006 debut.

The Ministerial Oversight Committee comprises representatives from key state institutions, the sports fraternity, national security, and the creative and tourism sectors. Members include:

Stan Xoese Dogbe – Office of the President

Hon. Kofi Adams – Sports and Recreation

Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa – Foreign Affairs

Hon. George Opare – Youth Development

Hon. Yusif Jajah – Tourism and Culture (Deputy Minister)

Ampem Nyarkoh – Ministry of Finance (Deputy Minister)

Kurt Okraku – President, Ghana Football Association (Chairman)

Elizabeth Yankah – Deputy National Security Coordinator

Abedi Pele – Former Ghana International

Mrs. Wilhelmina Asamoah – Chief Director, Ministry of Sports

One member yet to be announced

The inauguration follows the government’s allocation of GH¢150 million to support Ghana’s World Cup campaign. Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced the funding during the 2026 Budget presentation on November 13, noting that the investment reflects Ghana’s commitment to sports development and international visibility.

The fund will cover team preparation, logistics and participation expenses ahead of the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

With the Oversight Committee now in place, the government says it expects a well-coordinated national effort to ensure the Black Stars – and all supporting sectors – are primed for a strong and impactful performance at the 2026 World Cup.