President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed concerns over the decline of sports in the country, acknowledging the struggles that have overshadowed past successes.
Despite Ghana’s rich history in sports—including Olympic medals, boxing titles, and strong performances in football at both youth and senior levels—the country’s sporting fortunes have dwindled, worsened by the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking during the State of the Nation Address on Thursday, February 27, President Mahama admitted the challenges but reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Ghana’s former sporting glory.
“Ghana’s sports sector, once again, which was a shining example of excellence within Africa, now finds itself at a very critical juncture,” he stated.
“Historically, our nation has been celebrated and has had remarkable achievements in boxing, football, and athletics. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case.”
He attributed the decline to issues in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development, stressing the need for urgent reforms.
“However, recent years have unveiled the depressing structural deficiencies in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development. Immediate and comprehensive reforms are imperative to reclaim our rightful place on the global sports stage.”
With the Black Stars set to begin their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign after missing out on AFCON 2025 in Morocco, Mahama emphasized the urgency of revitalizing Ghanaian sports to ensure future success.