Former Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Ibrahim Sannie Daara is urging government to invest betting tax revenues into developing sports infrastructure.
His proposal comes after the Baba Yara Stadium was banned by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) due to its poor playing surface.
This decision may force the Black Stars to play their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on neutral grounds.
During an interview on Joy News’ PM Express, Daara suggested that, government could use revenue from sports betting taxes to fund stadium maintenance and improvements.
“We need to rethink our approach. The government is generating substantial income from sports betting, and it’s possible that this revenue could exceed a million dollars. Instead of directing these funds elsewhere, why not invest a portion into stadium maintenance?” the CAF Media Officer said.
He emphasized the need for hiring skilled professionals to manage these facilities rather than relying on politically appointed individuals, stressing that “technical expertise is crucial to ensure our stadiums meet international standards.”
Ghana is scheduled to play Sudan next month in a venue yet to be confirmed for their third AFCON qualifier before travelling for the return leg at the Al-Merrikh Stadium in Sudan.
Reports indicate that, the Black Stars could play their home game in neighbouring countries like Togo, Nigeria, or Ivory Coast.
In response to the situation, the National Sports Authority (NSA) has closed three major stadiums—Baba Yara, Accra Sports, and Cape Coast— for maintenance work.