With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams is pushing for the urgent passage of the Sports Fund Bill, describing it as critical to properly financing Ghana’s participation and boosting the country’s broader sporting fortunes.

Addressing Parliament on Thursday, February 19, the Buem MP stressed that adequate funding will be central to the success of the Ghana national football team as they prepare for the global tournament scheduled to kick off in June.

“Ghana has qualified for the World Cup; funding will be a key component for our participation, and it is in that spirit, Speaker, I make this statement,” Adams told the House.

He argued that without a structured and reliable financing system, Ghana risks undermining its preparation efforts at a time when strong logistical, technical and infrastructural support is needed to compete at the highest level. According to him, the proposed Ghana Sports Fund would provide a dedicated, transparent and accountable framework to support everything from athlete preparation and welfare to infrastructure and grassroots development.

Adams also framed the bill as a long-term economic opportunity, noting that the global sports industry is valued at over $500 billion, yet contributes less than 0.5 percent to GDP across most African countries, a gap he attributes to weak financing systems rather than lack of talent.

“Legislation alone does not finance sports; commitment does,” he said, adding that the Sports Fund would match Ghana’s sporting ambitions with sustainable funding.

In a show of confidence in the initiative, the National Investment Bank has donated GH¢100,000 to the fund, while Adams and Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor also made personal contributions.

Ghana has been drawn in Group L alongside Panama, England and Croatia, opening their campaign against Panama on June 17, followed by fixtures against England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.

For the minister, the message is clear: passing the Sports Fund Bill quickly could provide the financial backbone needed to ensure the Black Stars head to the World Cup fully prepared and competitive on the world stage.