Former Sports Minister and MP for Yagaba-Kubori, Mustapha Ussif, has praised the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for its strong support of women’s football in Ghana, especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking in Parliament on July 29, 2025, Ussif emphasized that the previous government introduced key initiatives that contributed significantly to the recent successes of the Black Queens, who clinched bronze at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after defeating South Africa.
According to Ussif, during the suspension of football activities amid the pandemic, Akufo-Addo’s government ensured that players in the Women’s Premier League received monthly stipends—a first in Ghana’s football history. This financial support, he said, kept many players active and focused during a challenging period.
“Mr. Speaker, for the first time in Ghana’s history, all Women’s Premier League players received stipends during the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to President Akufo-Addo. Many of the players you see shining today benefited from that support,” he stated.
He also highlighted the construction of multiple AstroTurf pitches across the country under Akufo-Addo’s leadership, which became training grounds for several women’s clubs.
“These facilities gave our female teams the platform to train effectively, and the results are evident in their performances,” Ussif added.
The former minister encouraged the current administration to maintain momentum in developing sports infrastructure, calling for continued efforts to provide every district with quality sporting facilities.
“The current government must not abandon the vision of equipping every district with a befitting sports center. Infrastructure is key to developing talent,” he urged.
Ussif’s comments come amid growing calls for sustained investment in women’s sports, particularly after the Black Queens’ impressive showing on the continental stage.
