Ghanaian sports ministry welfare and payment disputes

The Ghana Ministry of Sports and Recreation has faced scrutiny over the welfare and financial support of national athletes. Initially, the Ministry denied claims by the Black Queens football team regarding unpaid per diems and bonuses during the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, asserting that payments were made in advance and providing signed allowance sheets as evidence.

Following these disputes, the Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament demanded explanations regarding systemic administrative failures during the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Allegations included logistical issues such as late airline tickets, inadequate luggage allowances, delayed competition kits, and poor communication regarding per diems. The caucus also highlighted concerns over athlete accommodation and supervision, linking these failures to the previous grievances raised by the Black Queens.

The financial dispute with the Black Queens has intensified following their participation in the 2026 WAFCON. Players have demanded transparency regarding unpaid per diems and qualification bonuses, specifically questioning why payments did not cover the full duration of their training camp starting July 11. The Ministry maintains that all approved allowances were fulfilled, stating per diems were paid in advance on July 29 and again on August 11. While the Ministry confirmed that winning bonuses from the victory over Cape Verde are being processed, it denied the existence of a separate qualification bonus under current financing frameworks. Despite these administrative tensions, the team secured a 2-1 victory against Côte d’Ivoire, keeping their hopes for a 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification spot alive via the inter-confederation play-off route.