The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has made a significant donation of GH¢50,000 to Ghana's Black Challenge, the national amputee football team, as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup in Mexico. This gesture is part of the government's efforts to support the team ahead of the tournament, scheduled to take place from November 13-22 in San Juan de los Lagos, Mexico. The team, comprising 15 players and five officials, is set to represent Ghana in the competition.
During a visit to the team at the University of Ghana on October 26, 2026, Minister Opoku, accompanied by his deputy, John Setor Dumelo, expressed his solidarity with the team. The visit was an opportunity for the officials to interact with the players and offer words of encouragement. Minister Opoku emphasized that the government's presence at the training session demonstrates the nation's support for the team, stating that they are all behind them.
Minister Opoku urged the team to approach the competition with confidence, highlighting their strengths and potential for success. He encouraged the players to believe in themselves, saying, "You are stronger than you know." The minister's visit and donation are expected to boost the team's morale as they prepare for the World Cup. The Black Challenge is the reigning African champion in amputee football.
In addition to the financial donation, Minister Opoku announced a special business opportunity for the Black Challenge team. The government plans to offer poultry farming opportunities under the 'Nkoko Nketenkete' program, which will provide support with birds, feed, equipment, and technical guidance. Initially intended for the eight home-based players, the program has been extended to all 20 members of the contingent, including the seven foreign-based players and team officials.
The 'Nkoko Nketenkete' program aims to empower the team members to establish sustainable livelihoods beyond football. Minister Opoku explained that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture will coordinate the initiative, with Deputy Minister John Setor Dumelo overseeing the implementation upon the team's return from the tournament. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the team members.
The donation and business opportunity announcement are not the only show of support for the Black Challenge. Recently, dancehall star Stonebwoy donated GH¢100,000, while Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah contributed GH¢10,000, alongside bottled water and soft drinks. These gestures demonstrate the growing support for the team as they prepare for the World Cup.
Ghana's preparations for the World Cup have included camping in Accra, with a planned final training camp in Türkiye affected by visa-related delays. Despite these challenges, the team remains focused on their goal of performing well in the competition. With the support of the government and other stakeholders, the Black Challenge is poised to make a strong impression at the 2026 World Cup in Mexico.
Key points
- The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, donates GH¢50,000 to Ghana's Black Challenge ahead of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico.
- The government offers poultry farming opportunities under the 'Nkoko Nketenkete' program to support the team's livelihoods beyond football.
- The team has received support from various stakeholders, including dancehall star Stonebwoy and Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah.
