Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Mustapha Ahmed, has confirmed that the winning bonus of the Black Stars would be slashed.
He, however, said he was not too sure on the exact time the decision would be executed and the percentage of the amount to be hacked off.
Speaking at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Ordinary Congress at Prampram yesterday, the minister stated that, they were considering reducing the amount after realising his outfit was not comfortable paying the $10,000 as winning bonus.
He added that following the economic challenges facing the country in recent times, it would be vital if such deductions are made to reduce the burden on the ministry.
“We have not made a firm decision on the issue yet, but would be in dialogue with the FA and players to come out with the right figure at the right time,” he stated.
It was reported earlier that the ministry would reduce the bonus by 50 per cent ahead of the Stars upcoming World Cup qualifier with Comoros, but the minister stated that such conclusion was yet to be reached.
Dr. Ahmed also disclosed that his outfit has a perfect relationship with the GFA and would continue to work closely to develop football in the country.
“The ministry has a fantastic relationship with the FA and we are not at loggerheads as perceived by some sections of the public,” he stated.
He added that it was important to eschew any form of difference between the two outfits and work together to ensure the growth of football in Ghana.
The minister acknowledged some challenges facing the growth of football in the country including the low patronage of the local league and structures.
He was hopeful that, the right suggestions to address the issue would be derived after the congress with the ministry standing by to support any progressive decisions that would be made.
“It is important to strengthen structures to develop football from the grassroots with the right equipment, facility and personnel to promote young talents,” he stated.
He said the ministry has plans to expand infrastructure at the National Sports College by building hostels, classrooms, gyms, playing fields and accommodation for start to make it function as an academy.
“There would also be the rehabilitation of the Kumasi, Takoradi, Tamale and the Accra Sports Stadia as part of efforts to improve upon infrastructure,” he added.
He also called on all stakeholders especially to get involved to develop football as most of the problems hindering infrastructure development is finance.
He also congratulated the GFA for a successful congress and optimistic that it would be one of the vital platforms to develop football in the country.
<<Print>>