Julius Debrah tasks World Cup Committee to enforce strict visa, travel oversight – to

Shika Dzidzoamenu 2 weeks ago

The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has directed the newly inaugurated ministerial committee in charge of Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to immediately begin discussions with the United States Embassy to streamline visa access for Ghanaian supporters.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony at the Presidency on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, Mr. Debrah emphasized the importance of early diplomatic engagement to ensure that thousands of Ghanaians hoping to travel to the United States and Canada for the tournament receive timely assistance.

“We task you to help coordinate the travel arrangements. Usually, we run into trouble when it comes to visas, and as you know, some people want to take advantage of the system and abscond, giving the country a bad name,” Mr. Debrah said.

Officials at the US Embassy have reportedly expressed willingness to support a smoother visa process for Ghanaian fans. “They said they are ready to make sure as many Ghanaians as possible are able to attend,” he noted, urging the committee to “act without delay” and follow up with the appropriate Embassy officials.

Mr. Debrah explained that the directive is part of a broader shift in Ghana’s approach to major global football events, now encompassing logistics, tourism, national branding, and investment promotion — in addition to on-field performance.

The Chief of Staff stressed that the committee’s mandate includes supervising travel arrangements, coordinating with relevant state institutions, and ensuring that Ghana is represented with dignity throughout the tournament.

“The World Cup gives Ghana an opportunity to present itself to a global audience, and our planning must go beyond the 90 minutes of football,” he said.

The government officially inaugurated the ministerial committee on Wednesday, signaling the national importance attached to next year’s tournament. Mr. Debrah urged the committee to make maximum use of the opening created by the US Embassy’s positive posture to guarantee a smooth visa process for fans.