Ghana, Ukraine sign strategic alliance in football development

A Ukrainian delegation has expressed interest in forming a strategic partnership with Ghana to support football development, including plans to establish a football academy in the country.

The delegation, led by Ukraine’s Ambassador to Ghana, Ivan Lukachuk, included investors as well as Andrii Zasakha, Chief Executive Officer of Agri Holding in Takoradi and President of a Ukrainian Premier League football club.

The team paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, on Friday, February 20, 2026, to discuss potential collaboration in football development as a means of strengthening bilateral relations between Ghana and Ukraine.

During the meeting, the Minister welcomed the delegation and underscored the importance of international sports cooperation in promoting development, resilience and cultural exchange. He acknowledged Ukraine’s football pedigree, referencing the historic achievements of FC Dynamo Kyiv in European competitions.

Ghana, widely regarded for its strong football culture and deep talent pool, stands to benefit from structured international partnerships focused on grassroots development and technical capacity building.

Mr Adams indicated that the government remains open to initiatives that enhance grassroots football and improve infrastructure, noting that a partnership with Ukraine could yield mutual benefits for both nations.

Also present at the meeting was the President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku, who outlined ongoing reforms and development programmes within Ghana’s football ecosystem. He expressed readiness to align local initiatives with Ukrainian expertise and standards, particularly in youth development and academy structures.

Concluding the engagement, the Minister expressed optimism about the prospects of a long-term alliance.

“We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that benefits both nations, promotes the spirit of sportsmanship and builds resilience through sports,” he stated.

The proposed partnership is expected to focus on knowledge exchange, investment in infrastructure and structured academy systems aimed at strengthening grassroots football development in Ghana.