The Ghana Football Association and Universal Merchant Bank have locked in a three-year partnership to back Ghana’s football growth from the Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup push all the way down to juvenile football.
The deal was signed on Friday, May 29, 2026, at UMB Bank’s headquarters in Accra, with top officials from both the GFA and the bank in attendance.
Running from May 30, 2026 to May 29, 2029, the partnership will fund key areas of Ghana football: the Black Stars’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, national teams, domestic league competitions, women’s football, and grassroots youth development.
GFA Vice-President Mark Addo said the agreement reflects a long-term vision for the game, not just a branding deal.
“This collaboration represents a shared commitment to the growth, sustainability, and long-term development of football in Ghana,” Addo said. “Over the next three years, this partnership will play an important role in strengthening Ghana’s football ecosystem at every level.”
He described football as a unifying force for the country: “At the Ghana Football Association, we strongly believe football is a powerful vehicle for national unity, opportunity, and transformation. Football inspires communities, creates dreams for young people, and connects millions of Ghanaians both at home and abroad.”
Addo revealed the partnership will also roll out capacity-building programs in coaching, administration, physiotherapy, media, marketing, and financial literacy. The goal is to equip players, coaches, and administrators with skills beyond the pitch.
“In today’s sporting world, talent alone is not enough,” he stressed. “Financial awareness, education, and responsible planning are increasingly important for athletes and football stakeholders, and we are encouraged that UMB shares this vision.”
UMB CEO Dr. Philip Oti Mensah said the bank’s support goes beyond the chequebook.
“At UMB, we are delighted to partner with the Ghana Football Association in a relationship that reflects our shared commitment to excellence, growth, and national pride,” Dr. Oti Mensah stated. “Our desire is for this partnership to deliver value not only in the short term but also over the long term.”
He said UMB will focus on building capacity across Ghana football, from grassroots to national teams.
“As a proudly Ghanaian bank, we understand the power of football to unite, inspire, and transform lives. That is why UMB stands United, Motivated and Bold behind the Black Stars and Ghana football,” he added.
Both sides say they’re confident the partnership will create real impact for fans, communities, and the future of the sport in Ghana.
