Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, former Minister of Youth and Sports (MOYS) on Wednesday, August 20, informed the Presidential Commission of Inquiry investigating the participation of the Black Stars in 2014 FIFA World Cup that, his outfit raised a total GH¢4,509,635 from corporate bodies and individuals for the organisation of supporters to the event.
Afriyie-Ankrah, who appeared before the Commission said, the money was raised from 41 corporate bodies and individuals who decided to support the participation of Ghana at the 2014 World Cup.
The former minister who was grilled for almost five hours by the commission said, a total of GH¢4,483,262 was used for the organisation of supporters to Brasil.
Afriyie-Ankrah said, the money was spent on air tickets, accommodation for supporters, feeding, sitting allowances, media relations, printing of magazine among others.
According to the minister, he was reliably informed that, some companies were still presenting cheques to the ministry following the sponsorship drive initiated during preparations for the World Cup.
The minister said, a total of 612 supporters were sent to Brasil to support the Black Stars, but added that, 84 supporters who were not part of the contingent managed to sneak into the camp of the supporters to increase the number to 697 supporters.
“Officially we sent 612 supporters but some Ghanaians and even including non-Ghanaians managed to sneak into the camp.
“We had no option than to accommodate them in the camp”. He stated.
The minister will continue with his presentation on Thursday, August 21.