Ghana’s sports sector has once again been thrown under scrutiny as revelations emerge that Black Stars head coach Otto Addo and his technical team have gone seven months without salaries. Despite the crucial role they play in managing the country’s most high-profile national team, the Ministry for Sports and Recreation has remained silent, fueling growing frustration within Ghana’s football fraternity.
The non-payment issue does not end with the senior men’s team. A series of outstanding bonuses across multiple national sides has painted a grim picture of administrative neglect at a time Ghana is fighting to restore its footballing image on the continent and beyond.
The Ghana U20 men’s team is yet to receive its qualification bonus for securing a place at the upcoming 2025 U20 AFCON, in addition to the bonus for qualifying from their group during the tournament. The situation is no different for the Ghana U20 women’s team, who are owed their qualification bonus after progressing to the second phase of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
Even more concerning is the case of the Ghana U17 boys, who have not received their qualification bonus nor their per diems after securing a spot at the U17 AFCON scheduled for Morocco next month. These delays risk affecting morale as teams prepare for crucial continental competitions that could shape the future of Ghanaian football.
Just weeks ago, the Black Queens staged a sit-down strike, refusing to train for two days ahead of their AFCON qualifier against Egypt due to unpaid allowances. It took the intervention of the Ghana Football Association and corporate partners before the Ministry of Sports Recreation settled the players and their technical team.
Stakeholders have described the trend of unpaid bonuses and salaries as a disturbing and recurring phenomenon that undermines the commitment and sacrifices of national team players and technical staff. Critics also argue that the pattern is damaging the reputation of the government while raising questions about financial discipline and prioritisation within the Ministry.
Sports observers say the silence from the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams, has further aggravated the situation. Many believe the Ministry’s poor communication and apparent lack of urgency reflect deeper administrative lapses that require immediate correction.
With major international tournaments approaching, football analysts warn that unresolved financial challenges could severely affect team performance and Ghana’s overall competitiveness. They are calling on the Ministry, the government, and all key stakeholders to act swiftly to restore confidence and ensure that national teams receive the respect and resources they deserve.