U.S. Embassy, Ghana deepen ties through football diplomacy …Nearly 300 girls, 50 coaches benefit from Sports Envoy programme

The United States Embassy in Ghana has utilized football as a means to strengthen relations between the two nations, training nearly 300 female student-athletes and 50 coaches in leadership, mentorship, and sporting development. The initiative, part of the U.S. Department of State's Sports Envoy programme, took place in Tamale, Kumasi, and Accra. Former U.S. professional athletes and coaches engaged with young people through sports activities.

In Accra, 96 female student-athletes from various schools in the Greater Accra Region participated in practical football training and mentorship sessions. The event was organized by Amy Griffin, a former United States Women’s National Team player, and Kofi Sarkodie, a former Major League Soccer (MLS) defender. Donyá Eldridge, the Culture and Education Attaché of the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, highlighted how sport had provided an important platform for enhancing the bilateral relationship between Ghana and the United States.

This initiative coincided with Ghana's qualification for and participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Eldridge emphasized that the programme was also part of the United States' Freedom 250 commemoration, marking the 250th anniversary of the country's founding. The initiative allowed the U.S. to share aspects of its experience with Ghana through the shared passion of football.