Sports Ministry Rejects World Cup Catering Proposals
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has rejected proposals from individuals and companies seeking to provide catering services for Ghana’s delegation to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing concerns over cost management and transparency.
Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, disclosed the decision during an interview.
He explained that the government is adopting a cautious spending approach due to the high cost of participation in the tournament.
“A lot of people have come to the ministry looking for a feeding contract, but I told them we’re not doing that,” he stated.
According to the Minister, the government intends to sponsor approximately 800 supporters to the tournament but will not take on the responsibility of feeding arrangements. Instead, beneficiaries will cater for their own meals and visa fees, while the state will cover airfare, accommodation, and local transportation.
Mr Adams noted that the estimated cost per supporter stands at 9,250 dollars, even at the group stage of the competition.
He indicated that this figure has necessitated a more measured approach to spending, making it impractical to extend support to all members of the Supporters’ Union.
“The cost is quite high, so we’re thinking about not doing more than 800. The Supporters’ Union are many; we can’t take all,” he explained.
The Ministry believes that declining catering contracts will help minimise the risk of financial mismanagement and eliminate unnecessary expenditure, while reinforcing transparency in the organisation of Ghana’s World Cup campaign.
Mr Adams emphasised that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to prudent use of public funds, while still ensuring that a significant number of Ghanaian supporters are present to back the national team on football’s biggest stage.
