World Cup participation opportunity to market Ghana – Fundraising C’tee Chair

Chairman of Ghana’s World Cup Fundraising Committee, Thomas Ampem Nyarko, says Ghana will leverage the World Cup to promote investment and showcase its potential globally.

Speaking to the media after Friday’s launch event, the Deputy Finance Minister outlined plans to use the tournament beyond football.

“For us as a country, we see the Black Stars’ participation in the World Cup as an opportunity to market Ghana and show Ghana to the world,” he said, stressing that the focus will go beyond matches on the pitch.

He revealed that the government, in collaboration with the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, is planning a series of side events aimed at attracting investors and promoting Ghanaian businesses.

“Apart from the sporting event, apart from the soccer on the pitch, we are organising some side events. We are partnering GIPC to organise investment forum in major cities in DC, in Toronto, to allow Ghanaian companies to showcase what they have in this country,” he explained.

According to him, the initiative will create opportunities for local businesses to connect with international partners and expand their reach. He also called on the private sector to support the effort.

“We are encouraging our corporate Ghana to support this initiative so that all of us will be able to market this country,” he added.

The strategy comes as Ghana prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

At the same event, President Mahama made it clear that the government will not sponsor fan travel due to cost concerns.

“The logistical cost of flying and feeding even just 200 supporters is staggering,” he said, estimating the expense at nearly $2 million.

Meanwhile, Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ chances, stating, “We will not go into the tournament as underdogs. We fear no foe.”

With preparations underway, officials say the focus remains on both competitive performance and maximizing Ghana’s visibility on the global stage.