World Cup visa scandal: US Embassy introduced Tribe Fest Culture to NSA, GTA - Sports Minister

Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams has revealed that the US Embassy introduced a cultural group called Tribe Fest Culture to the National Sports Authority (NSA) and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup events in Ghana. This disclosure, made in an interview on TV3's Hot Issues, has raised concerns about potential misuse of this introduction for improper purposes.

Speaking about the role of Tribe Fest Culture, Adams explained that they were introduced to the NSA and GTA for activities related to the World Cup. However, he noted that those involved would be best placed to clarify the exact nature of these "activations," which he described as events planned to take place in each of Ghana's regions, with major events in Kumasi, Tamale, and Cape Coast.

The US Embassy had plans for 16 events across the country, with the main activities expected in Kumasi, Tamale, and Cape Coast. These events were to feature viewing points on match days, using facilities provided by the NSA. Initially, the Minister was unaware of any US-based activations, learning about them only on May 19 through a letter from the NSA's Director-General, which included a list of 90 volunteers and requests for visa support.