It was a crisp evening in Accra when Kwame, a lifelong fan of the Black Stars, switched off his TV in frustration. Ghana’s dream of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations had just slipped through their fingers. He wasn’t alone. Across the country, emotions ran high as pundits dissected every tactical decision, and fans called for radical changes within the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

Among the loudest cries were demands for the resignation of GFA President Kurt Okraku and, shockingly, calls for the government to dissolve the association entirely. In a local café, a group of fans debated fiercely. “The government needs to step in!” one exclaimed. But Ama, a sports journalist sitting nearby, decided to share a story—one that would challenge these calls for dissolution.

A History of Neglect

Ama began, “You know, it’s easy to blame the GFA, but do you realize how little support football in Ghana gets from the government?” She reminded them of the stark differences between Ghana and countries like the UK, where governments actively invest in football infrastructure and grassroots development.

“In Ghana,” she continued, “the government provides stadiums, yes, but clubs have to pay to use them. Meanwhile, football clubs struggle with high taxes on gate proceeds and import duties on equipment. Compare that to entertainment and tourism, which get tax incentives. How can the GFA perform miracles when the system itself is broken?”

Kwame, intrigued, asked, “But isn’t the GFA supposed to handle football development?”

The GFA’s Role and Progress

Ama nodded. “True, the GFA has its responsibilities. But did you know it operates as an independent, non-profit organization? It’s not a government agency. Legally, the government can’t just dissolve it unless there’s evidence of criminal activity, like in the Number 12 scandal. Performance on the field isn’t enough reason.”

She listed some of the GFA’s achievements: a functional technical directorate, talent identification programs, and the introduction of youth teams at various levels. Even refereeing had improved through the ‘Catch Them Young’ initiative. “And don’t forget the women’s league,” she added. “It’s growing, with more players heading to international clubs.”

“But the Black Stars failed us,” another fan interjected.

“True,” Ama admitted. “But football success isn’t built overnight. The GFA has been laying the groundwork, despite minimal support from the government. Imagine what they could do with proper collaboration.”

A Tale of Two Systems

She painted a vivid picture of the UK’s Football Governance Bill, which aims to reform club finances and governance. “The UK can do this because their government has invested heavily in football for decades. They’ve earned the right to regulate. Ghana, on the other hand, has largely left the GFA to fend for itself.”

The room grew quieter as Ama concluded, “It’s not dissolution we need. It’s partnership. The government, GFA, and private stakeholders must work together to fix the cracks. Blaming one party won’t rebuild our football.”

The Whistle Blows

Kwame leaned back, deep in thought. Ama’s words resonated. Maybe it wasn’t about tearing down what was already built. Maybe it was about strengthening the foundations together.

That night, as the café buzzed with quieter debates, Kwame decided he wouldn’t just be a fan anymore. He would advocate for collaboration—a whistle blown not in anger, but in hope for a united Ghanaian football renaissance.