Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Black Queens for their remarkable performance at the recently concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. The team secured a bronze medal after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over South Africa.
In the third-place playoff, the Black Queens and South Africa battled to a 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time. The match was ultimately decided on penalties, with Ghana emerging victorious 4-2. The players’ resilience and determination earned them a deserved spot on the podium.
The team touched down in Ghana on Monday, July 28, and paid a courtesy call on President Mahama the following day, led by the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams. The President received the squad with a heroic welcome, celebrating their dedication and success.
During the visit, President Mahama praised the team, the Sports Minister, the Ghana Football Association (GFA), and the management for their unwavering commitment, describing their efforts as “playing with a lion’s heart.” He acknowledged the challenges faced, including the tough opposition from the host nation, Morocco.
“I called the Sports Minister and urged the team to aim for at least a bronze medal, and I am proud to say you did just that,” President Mahama stated. “Your victory is a testament to your hard work and resilience.”
In recognition of their achievement, President Mahama announced plans to reward the team financially, promising to provide an undisclosed monetary award. Additionally, he indicated that he would consult with the Minister for the Interior to consider creating a quota for recruiting talented sportsmen into Ghana’s security services, as a means of supporting and encouraging athletic excellence.
The Black Queens’ success at WAFCON has been widely celebrated across the nation, inspiring young girls and women to pursue their dreams in sports. As Ghana continues to build on this momentum, the government’s support underscores the importance of empowering female athletes on the international stage.
