The Ministry of Sports and Recreation Ghana has firmly rejected circulating social media claims suggesting that the sector minister sponsored individuals with business class tickets to Germany for the Black Stars’ recent international friendly matches.
In an official statement dated 29 March 2026, the Ministry described the allegations as “false and without any basis,” urging the public to disregard what it called misleading narratives gaining traction online.
The statement follows the emergence of a widely shared video purportedly showing the Minister in the company of individuals alleged to have benefitted from state-sponsored travel. However, the Ministry clarified that the persons captured in the footage are not known to the Minister and were merely fellow Ghanaian travellers he encountered briefly at the airport prior to departure.
According to the Ministry, the interaction was casual and typical of public officials engaging with citizens in such settings. It stressed that no arrangements were made to facilitate or sponsor any individual’s travel.
Providing further clarity, the Ministry explained that the Minister travelled alone to Germany on official duty to engage with the Black Stars team and technical staff ahead of their friendly fixtures. It emphasised that no officials, aides, or delegation members accompanied him on the trip.
Crucially, the Ministry also revealed that it had not committed any public funds—either directly from its budget or through corporate sponsorship—towards the said matches. As such, it noted that no logistical or financial support had been extended for fan travel or participation.
“The public is urged to disregard these misleading narratives,” the statement reiterated, adding that the Ministry remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of public resources.
The clarification comes at a time when scrutiny over public spending and accountability in sports administration continues to grow, particularly regarding national team engagements abroad. The Ministry’s swift response appears aimed at addressing public concern and maintaining confidence in its operations.
The statement was signed by Bagbara Tanko, Head of Public Relations and Communications at the Ministry.