Eric Opoku donates GH‵50,000 to Black Challenge ahead of 2026 World Cup

Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has presented GH₵50,000 to the Black Challenge, Ghana’s national amputee football team. The donation is intended to bolster the team's preparations for the 2026 Amputee Football World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in Mexico from November 13 to 22. During a visit to the team’s training session at the University of Ghana, the Minister also pledged to enroll the players in a dedicated agricultural program to ensure their long-term financial security.

Beyond the immediate cash support, Mr. Opoku announced that the eight locally-based players in the squad would be integrated into the "Nkoko Nketenkete" poultry program. This initiative will provide the athletes with the necessary equipment, technical support, and resources to establish their own poultry businesses. The Minister explained that this partnership aims to link sports with economic opportunities, providing a sustainable livelihood for the players after their competitive sporting careers conclude.

Accompanying the Minister during the visit was his deputy, John Dumelo. Both officials demonstrated their solidarity by participating in a ceremonial penalty shootout with the team. Mr. Opoku encouraged the players to represent Ghana with confidence and pride as they prepare to face group-stage opponents Angola, Colombia, and Iraq. He emphasized that the nation stands firmly behind them, recognizing their potential to excel on the global stage.

This contribution brings total recent financial support for the Black Challenge to GH₵150,000, following a GH₵100,000 donation from dancehall artist Stonebwoy. Additional support has also been noted from Member of Parliament Vincent Ekow Assafuah. This collective effort highlights a growing movement to support athletes with disabilities in Ghana, serving as a potential model for integrating sports development with national agricultural and economic agendas.