Ghana Sports Ministry faces scrutiny over World Cup visa scandal

Ghana's Ministry of Sports and Recreation is facing intense scrutiny following allegations of a visa facilitation scandal related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Reports suggest that approximately $623,000 was collected from prospective travelers seeking assistance with visas for the tournament.

Sports Minister Kofi Adams has defended the ministry's actions, stating that the National Sports Authority (NSA) requested assistance for 90 volunteers and event coordinators. The ministry maintains that it merely forwarded requests through established diplomatic channels and denies any involvement in wrongdoing. However, the controversy has escalated with claims that private entities, including Tribe Culture Fest, were involved in collecting funds. The CEO of Tribe Culture Fest has denied receiving the alleged $611,000 or $623,000, asserting that their contractual relationships were limited to the NSA and the Ghana Tourism Authority.

Political tension has risen as the Minority in Parliament has called for the minister's resignation. Meanwhile, the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service is conducting an investigation into the matter. Amidst the scandal, questions have also been raised regarding parliamentary ticket allocations and specific administrative payments made during the campaign.