Edem Agbana: Invest in Astro Turfs, Not World Cup Fan Trips | Discuss Ghana

On Monday, March 9, 2026, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Hon. Eric Edem Agbana, voiced strong opposition to the government's traditional practice of using public funds to sponsor supporters to the FIFA World Cup.

With the 2026 World Cup in North America less than 90 days away, Agbana argued that the estimated millions required for fan travel would be better spent on sustainable sports infrastructure at the grassroots level.

Hon. Eric Edem Agbana

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The MP’s Financial Argument

Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News, Agbana provided a breakdown of why he believes government sponsorship is a "significant financial burden" with minimal community return:

The $9,000 Per Fan Cost: Agbana estimated that it costs the state roughly $9,000 per supporter for the group stage alone, covering flights, match tickets, accommodation, and allowances.

The $18 Million Price Tag: He calculated that if the government sponsors 2,000 supporters, the total expenditure would reach $18 million.

Limited Reach: Agbana noted that if 2,000 fans are spread across Ghana's 276 constituencies, each area would see fewer than 10 people benefit from the trip.

Alternative Use of Funds: The MP stated that the $90,000 it would cost to send 10 people from Ketu North could instead build a modern Astro Turf pitch or sports complex that would serve thousands for decades.

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Current World Cup Sponsorship Landscape

The MP's comments come as several organizations launch their own mobilization efforts for the tournament:

GHANSU Campaign: The Ghana National Supporters Union recently launched the #GhanaIsInTheHouse campaign, pledging to send 400 fans to the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Corporate Funding Focus: Minister of Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams has stated that the government is focused on soliciting funds from corporate bodies rather than purely relying on the national treasury to determine how many fans can be sponsored.

World Cup Bonanza: A collaboration between the GFA, NLA, and Rambell aims to fly 220 fans to the tournament through a national raffle, reducing the direct burden on public funds.