Former Sports Minister Calls for Competent Leadership to Revive the Game

Akua Sena Dansua, a former Minister for Youth and Sports, has attributed the decline of Ghanaian football to poor leadership at both the ministerial and association levels. Speaking to Citi Sports, the ex-North Dayi Member of Parliament criticized the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports for failing to foster the right environment for the sport to flourish.

Her comments come at a time when Ghanaian football is grappling with significant challenges. The Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—marking the first time in 21 years that the nation will miss out on the tournament.

“There’s a lot that has gone wrong, especially with football, in terms of leadership—ministerial and association leadership,” Dansua stated. “Corruption, political interference, inexperience, and lack of unity among the players have all contributed to this decline.”

She emphasized the need for the next government, particularly under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to appoint a Sports Minister with expertise and a clear vision for reform. “If we are resetting every sector of the economy, football must also benefit. This depends largely on the personality appointed as minister and their competent deputies,” she added.

The Black Queens have also faced setbacks, with head coach Nora Hauptle departing to lead Zambia, despite having guided Ghana’s women’s team to their first Women’s AFCON qualification since 2018.

As calls for accountability grow, Dansua’s remarks highlight the urgent need for decisive leadership to restore Ghana’s footballing glory.