The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) have signed a three-year partnership agreement aimed at supporting Ghana's football development agenda, including the Black Stars' 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, women's football, domestic competitions and grassroots football.

The agreement was formalised on Friday, May 29, 2026, during a signing ceremony at the headquarters of UMB Bank.

Speaking at the event, GFA Vice-President Mark Addo described the partnership as a shared commitment to the growth and long-term development of football in Ghana.

According to him, the agreement, which runs from May 30, 2026, to May 29, 2029, will support key areas of Ghana football, including national teams, domestic league competitions, women's football and juvenile development programmes.

Mr. Addo said the partnership reflects an inclusive approach to football development by investing across all levels of the game.

He noted that beyond sponsorship, the collaboration will also focus on capacity-building initiatives in coaching, football administration, physiotherapy, media and communications, marketing and financial literacy.

According to him, these programmes are intended to equip players, coaches, administrators and young footballers with practical skills to support their professional development.

Mr. Addo further expressed appreciation to UMB Bank for supporting the Association's vision and development agenda.

Chief Executive Officer of UMB Bank, Philip Oti Mensah, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, growth and national development.

He stated that UMB's involvement goes beyond sponsorship and includes support for initiatives aimed at strengthening football development from the grassroots level to the national teams.

Dr. Oti Mensah said the bank recognises the role football plays in uniting people, inspiring ambition and creating opportunities, adding that these values align with UMB's identity as a Ghanaian institution.

He also reaffirmed the bank's commitment to working closely with the GFA to support the long-term development of football in the country.

The ceremony was attended by officials of the Ghana Football Association, executives of UMB Bank and other stakeholders from the football and corporate sectors.