The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Black Stars coaching staff and players have expressed solidarity with individuals and families affected by recent floods across parts of the country. The GFA called for unity and support as communities begin to recover from the disaster, while the national team has committed to dedicating their upcoming World Cup fixture to those impacted.
In a statement signed by GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, the Association conveyed its sadness that many Ghanaians are experiencing loss, displacement, and uncertainty. This comes at a time when the nation is celebrating the Black Stars‘ qualification for the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The GFA noted that despite the pride in the national team’s global achievement, the suffering of those affected by the floods remains a primary concern.
“On behalf of the Ghana Football Association and the entire football fraternity, I wish to assure all those affected that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult period,” the statement read. The Association also acknowledged the efforts of the government, emergency services, volunteers, and relief agencies working to assist the affected communities.
Simeon-Okraku urged for continued solidarity, expressing hope that those who have lost their homes and livelihoods would receive the necessary support to rebuild their lives. He also offered prayers for families who have suffered losses, wishing them strength and comfort as recovery efforts continue. The GFA President concluded by encouraging Ghanaians to remain united during this challenging period, expressing confidence that the country’s resilience and compassion would help overcome the challenges posed by the flooding. “Together, we will overcome,” he stated.
Black Stars’ message of solidarity
Black Stars coach Carlos Queiroz also conveyed a heartfelt message of solidarity to the victims of the floods, particularly those in Accra. He stated that the team would carry affected Ghanaians in their hearts during their upcoming match against Colombia. Queiroz described the disaster as a reminder that “football is secondary” in such moments.
In a statement released on behalf of himself, his technical team, and the entire Black Stars squad currently in the United States, Queiroz indicated that the team was deeply saddened by the tragedy. This sentiment was conveyed despite their preparations for a crucial World Cup fixture. “On behalf of myself, my technical team, and the entire Black Stars squad here in the United States, I want to express our deepest solidarity with the victims of the floods in Accra,” he said.
The coach extended his condolences to families who have lost relatives and to those displaced by the floods. He noted that the images and reports from home were heartbreaking, and that despite preparing for their match, their thoughts remained with Ghana. “To the families who have lost loved ones, those who have been displaced from their homes, and everyone affected, we are with you,” Queiroz added.
Queiroz emphasized that the disaster had served as a reminder to the team that there are times when football must take a secondary role. “In moments like this, we are reminded that football is secondary. Ghana is one family. When Accra suffers, we all suffer,” he stated. The floods, triggered by record-breaking rainfall on June 29, claimed lives, displaced hundreds of residents, and caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure across Accra, Tema, and surrounding communities.
Dedication on the field
The Black Stars are scheduled to face Colombia at the Kansas City Stadium on July 3 in the knockout stage of the tournament. The Portuguese coach affirmed that the players would dedicate their performance in this match to Ghanaians affected by the disaster. “We will carry the people of Accra in our hearts when we walk out at Kansas City Stadium on July 3,” Queiroz stated.
He further added that the resilience of the affected communities serves as an inspiration for the team. “Your resilience is our inspiration. We will give everything to make you proud and to bring some hope in this difficult time.” Queiroz concluded his message by urging Ghanaians to remain resilient during this period of recovery and rebuilding.
The GFA and the Black Stars have collectively highlighted the importance of national unity and support in the wake of the devastating floods, even as the national team continues its campaign in the World Cup.
The Black Stars will play Colombia on July 3.
Source: ghanasoccernet.com
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