The anticipated SaveGhanaFootball demonstration is currently underway in Accra, as Ghanaians unite with the common goal of advocating for improvements in the country’s football sector.
The demonstration, taking place on February 14, 2024, coincides with Valentine’s Day, symbolising the collective desire to revive the love for the game in Ghana.
Led by sports journalist Saddick Obama and other conveners, the peaceful walk aims to communicate grievances to the authorities responsible for football in Ghana, primarily the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
The Demonstration don start oooo, where you dey?#SaveGhanaFootball pic.twitter.com/ve2eia2X8K
— Benji Deflowman (@benjideflowman) February 14, 2024
The demonstrators are calling for increased investment in Ghanaian football and a shift in focus away from what they perceive as parochial interests.
- #SaveGhanaFootball: The Nationwide Demonstration
- I want to win AFCON and World Cup – GFA boss Kurt Okraku
Let us all endeavor to the right things to #SaveGhanaFootball
.@_kobbyna @KojoNketsia @gyaigyimii @nathan_quao pic.twitter.com/ZeJgZyWzGP
— SOTTIE 🇬🇭 (@staksottieGH) February 14, 2024
There is so much wrong with Ghana football. there are so many things to fix. That's why @SaddickAdams' #SaveGhanaFootball campaign is important.
Hopefully, it @ghanafaofficial understands that and fixes the man made problems holding us back. pic.twitter.com/zlfpy6B0qd
— Michael Oti Adjei (@OtiAdjei) February 14, 2024
We just want better for Ghana football. #SaveGhanaFootball pic.twitter.com/sMDCcbzN3U
— Nathan Quao (@nathan_quao) February 14, 2024
A significant point of contention is the reported $100,000 per head payment to Black Stars management committee members at the 2022 World Cup, which the demonstrators argue is disproportionate compared to the $30,000 awarded to the champion of the Ghana Premier League.
The group is making stops at key locations, including the Jubilee House and the Sports Ministry, to present their petition.
#SaveGhanaFootball pic.twitter.com/93BRcYmWDe
— Bright Kankam Boadu (@TheOnlyBKB) February 14, 2024
Among the demands, the demonstrators are urging President Nana Akufo-Addo to halt the establishment of a committee to replace Chris Hughton as the Black Stars coach. They contend that coaching is the least of Ghana’s problems, emphasising the need to address fundamental issues in the sport.
Security is tight during the demonstration, with a considerable number of police officers ensuring the smooth progression of the event.
#SaveGhanaFootball pic.twitter.com/Wb2ADyj1l8
— Saddick Adams (@SaddickAdams) February 14, 2024