GFA President Kurt Okraku Pledges Elite Squad for 2026 World Cup Amid Calls for Creative Industry Support

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the Black Stars are represented by the nation's finest talent at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking on the team's preparation and selection strategy, Okraku emphasized that the goal is to assemble a squad capable of competing at the highest international level. This assurance comes at a pivotal time for Ghanaian football as the association works to build a resilient team that can restore the nation's pride on the global stage following recent competitive cycles. In addition to promising a high-caliber squad, Okraku addressed long-standing concerns regarding the independence of the national team's technical staff. The GFA President firmly denied allegations of interfering in player call-ups, clarifying that his involvement is limited to administrative engagement with the coaching department. He maintained that such dialogue is necessary for organizational alignment and does not undermine the authority of the technical team. By distinguishing between administrative oversight and tactical interference, Okraku aimed to provide transparency regarding the GFA's internal processes and the selection of personnel. Parallel to the administrative focus, there is a significant push for increased public and cultural engagement to boost the team's morale. Princess Jannis Acheampong, CEO of the Princess Jannis Foundation, has called on Ghana’s creative industry to lead the charge in revitalizing national excitement for the Black Stars. Acknowledging the influence of musicians and entertainers, she urged them to use their platforms to inspire fans and players alike, especially in the wake of recent draws and the absence of key squad members. She noted that while some creative efforts have emerged, a broader, more unified campaign from the arts sector is essential to foster the national unity required for World Cup success. As the Black Stars navigate their qualifying journey, the synergy between administrative transparency, merit-based selection, and cultural support will be vital. The GFA's focus on securing top-tier talent, combined with a revitalized spirit of national support, sets the stage for what many hope will be a successful 2026 campaign. With the technical team tasked with refining the squad and the public encouraged to rally behind the players, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether Ghana can translate its footballing potential into a dominant performance on the world stage.