GFA President Kurt Okraku disclosed that the construction of first of its kind FIFA-standard pitch in the Upper East Region, fully funded by FIFA, amounted to $742,000.
He made this announcement during a ceremonial gathering at the forecourt of the Ghana Football Association headquarters. The event also saw the distribution of Nissan Navara pickup trucks to all Regional Football Associations aimed at enhancing their operational efficiency across the country.
Okraku emphasized the significance of the investment in improving football infrastructure and grassroots development, highlighting FIFA’s commitment to supporting such initiatives in Ghana.
The pitch is expected to serve as a vital facility for nurturing talent and hosting competitive matches in the region, contributing to the broader goal of elevating football standards nationwide.
Speaking at the event Kurt Okraku highlighted how committed FIFA is to the GFA’s agenda’ to fix the fundamentals of Ghanaian football.
“The office in France, in Paris, have been very supportive of the Ghanaian FA in our agenda to fix the fundamentals or the very foundation of our football,” he said.
“Today, the people, our brothers and sisters in Upper East have access to a FIFA certified full standard football pitch. And that pitch houses the first ever GFE elite football academy.” He added.
“I am sure somebody will say, how much did that cost? Today I will tell you. That project funded by FIFA cost $742,000.” He conceded.
The Ghana Football Association on Wednesday, August 05, 2020, secured the land Winkogo, for the construction of an AstroTurf following the decision of the Executive Council to use part of the project funds from the FIFA Forward 1.0 program for the construction of two Astro Turfs – one at Prampram and the other one at Winkogo, in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region.
The facility which commissioned in June 2023, will serve the people of Winkogo and its environs and will help solve the huge sports infrastructure deficit the region has been facing over the years.
