In a transparency move, Ghana’s Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, delivered a comprehensive statement to Parliament today, shedding light on the financial aspects of Ghana’s participation in the recently concluded Afcon 2023 tournament.
The minister’s disclosure encompassed the budget allocation, funds released, expenditure breakdown, and an unexpected contribution from MTN.
According to the statement, Ghana had budgeted a total of $8,506,450.00 for its campaign in the prestigious tournament. However, only $5,071,840.36 was released by the Ministry of Finance, prompting a strategic allocation of resources to ensure the effective representation of the country on the football stage.
The Sports Ministry, responsible for managing the financial aspects of the campaign, spent a total of $3,070,067.81.
The expenditure primarily covered per diems, flights, medicals, equipment, logistics, and hospitality, showcasing the multifaceted nature of managing a national team’s participation in a major sporting event.
Remarkably, the ministry returned the remaining balance of US$2,001,772.55, signaling a commitment to financial prudence and responsible budget management.
This move aligns with the broader efforts to ensure fiscal responsibility in the administration of sports-related expenditures.
A notable addition to the financial report was the disclosure that MTN, a telecommunications giant, contributed an additional $400,000.
While the minister did not provide specific details on how the contribution was utilized, he mentioned that it “contributed immensely in complimenting Government’s expenditure,” leaving room for interpretation and curiosity among the public.
The Afcon 2023 Financial Report,” reflects the essence of the story, providing readers with an insight into the financial intricacies surrounding Ghana’s participation in the tournament.
The transparency exhibited by the Sports Minister in presenting these details reinforces the government’s commitment to accountability and openness in managing public funds related to sports.
As the story unfolds, it invites readers to contemplate the financial dynamics involved in international sports representation and raises questions about the broader implications of such budgetary allocations on the development and sustainability of sports in Ghana.
