Deputy Administrator of the Ghana Sports Fund, Lawyer Simon Appiah Junior, says the Fund is prepared to provide direct financial support to individual clubs as part of efforts to strengthen Ghana’s sporting industry.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Appiah explained that supporting sports federations must also involve supporting the clubs that form the foundation of the various sporting competitions.
“The first thing is, we are ready even to support individual clubs. Yes, because if you are supporting federations, it entails clubs,” he said.
He stressed that the level of financial support would depend on the resources available, suggesting that a structured annual allocation could provide clubs with greater financial stability.
“If we have money, all of us must agree, for every year, every club is entitled to a so-so amount. So having done that, you know, you have provided at least for them.”
Appiah also noted that beyond direct support to clubs, funding would be needed to help federations organise their various competitions.
He warned that the collapse of clubs could have wider consequences for Ghana’s sports industry, arguing that sustainable funding is essential to maintaining healthy competition.
“Let me tell you, if these clubs collapse, the industry collapses,” he added.
According to Appiah, the Sports Fund is therefore exploring partnerships with private investors to generate sustainable revenue, including possible collaboration within the betting and gaming sector.
He said discussions have already been held with the Gaming Commission as the Fund looks at ways to create a steady flow of resources rather than relying solely on periodic government funding.
“If we are successful in this, it’s about sustainability. Once the funds keep coming and coming and coming, and we draw a table,” he stated.
Appiah believes establishing sustainable funding mechanisms would enable the Sports Fund to provide more consistent support to clubs and federations while helping strengthen competition across Ghana’s sporting landscape.
