U.S. Embassy in Ghana uses football to strengthen bilateral ties

The United States Embassy in Ghana is utilizing football as a tool for public diplomacy and strengthening bilateral ties. Through the U.S. Department of State’s Sports Envoy programme, nearly 300 female student-athletes and 50 coaches in Tamale, Kumasi, and Accra received training in leadership, mentorship, and sporting development.

The initiative featured former U.S. professional athletes, including former U.S. Women’s National Team player Amy Griffin and former Major League Soccer defender Kofi Sarkodie. Donyá Eldridge, Culture and Education Attaché of the U.S. Embassy, noted that the programme leverages the momentum of Ghana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to deepen partnerships across cultural and commercial lines.

In a related effort to support Ghanaian students, EducationUSA is encouraging prospective students to explore diverse financial aid options. During an upcoming college fair featuring approximately 30 accredited U.S. institutions, Eldridge advised students to look beyond traditional academic scholarships and inquire about athletic scholarships for sports such as football and tennis.