John Mahama urged the government to redirect resources toward women’s football, noting that the women’s teams have historically outperformed the men’s in trophy counts yet receive less financial backing. The comments came during a courtesy call by Ghana Premier League champions Medeama Sporting Club, MTN FA Cup holders Nations FC, and continental‑representing Ampem Darkoa Ladies ahead of their upcoming campaigns.
During the visit, Mahama observed that Ampem Darkoa Ladies had initially been overlooked, stating,
“Even today, you can see the discrimination. Ampem Darkoa were here, and they were almost ignored until I intervened. Yet look at the presentation she made, very eloquent.”He emphasized that the nation must “deliberately support women’s football and help bring the women’s teams up” in the spirit of affirmative action.
To address the imbalance, the President announced financial allocations for the three clubs: Medeama Sporting Club will receive GH¢342,000 (US$30,000), Nations Football Club GH¢228,000 (US$20,000), and Ampem Darkoa Ladies GH¢114,000 (US$10,000). He also confirmed that the current budget includes funds for constructing ten new stadia across regions such as Oti, Western North, Ahafo, Bono East, Savannah, and Northeast.
Mahama added that the Sports Development Fund, once fully operational, will extend support to athletics, boxing, and other sporting disciplines. The President’s remarks come as Ampem Darkoa Ladies continue to represent Ghana in continental women’s competitions, highlighting the need for sustained investment to maintain their competitive edge.
Moving forward, the government will monitor the impact of these allocations and explore additional measures to level the playing field between men’s and women’s football in Ghana.
