Simeon-Okraku Addresses the Presidency as Black Queens Pay Courtesy Call

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and CAF Second Vice President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has hailed the Black Queens for their historic performance at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Jubilee House, Ghana’s seat of government, Okraku praised the team’s achievement as a defining moment for women’s football in Ghana.

The Black Queens, who secured a bronze medal after a determined campaign, were warmly received at the Presidency as part of their official homecoming. The medal marked Ghana’s first podium finish at WAFCON in nearly two decades—a result that has reignited national enthusiasm for the women’s game.

In his address, Simeon-Okraku expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government and the Presidency for their steadfast support of football development in Ghana, particularly in the women’s division. He described the Queens’ success not only as a sporting milestone but also as a powerful symbol of what can be achieved through strategic planning, investment, and commitment.

“This moment is more than just about winning a medal,” he said. “It represents a shift in the narrative around women’s football in Ghana. It proves that when the right structures, support, and belief are in place, our women can rise to meet and exceed global standards.”

The GFA President emphasized that the team’s impressive journey in Morocco has inspired a new generation of young girls across the country. According to him, the success story sends a clear message: girls in Ghana can dream of becoming footballers and have the platform to thrive.

Okraku took time to commend head coach Kim Lars Björkegren and his technical team for their impact on the squad. He attributed the team’s strong showing to the professionalism, tactical discipline, and cohesion instilled by the coaching staff. He also lauded the players for their hard work, resilience, and unity throughout the tournament.

“This is a team that believed in each other. They remained disciplined, stayed focused, and played with purpose. Their success is a reflection of teamwork, sacrifice, and national pride,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Simeon-Okraku made a passionate appeal for increased investment in women’s football. He urged both the government and private sector to channel resources into key areas such as infrastructure, grassroots development, player welfare, and education. He stressed that sustained progress requires long-term commitment and collaboration between stakeholders.

“With consistent backing and smart policies, Ghana can once again become a dominant force not only in African women’s football but also on the global stage,” he said. “Now is the time to build on this momentum and put the necessary systems in place to ensure lasting success.”

The GFA President reaffirmed the Association’s full alignment with the government’s broader sports agenda. He assured the Presidency of the GFA’s ongoing efforts to support the reset and transformation of Ghana football, with special emphasis on youth and female development.

“Our role as the football governing body is to create opportunities, support talent, and push the boundaries of what is possible. The Black Queens have shown us that the future is bright—now we must build the foundation to sustain it,” he added.

The visit to the Presidency was a proud moment for the team and an opportunity to present their achievement to the nation’s leadership. It also served as a platform to reflect on the importance of inclusive sports development and the untapped potential of women’s football in Ghana.

As the Black Queens bask in the glory of their WAFCON 2024 success, the message from Jubilee House was clear: the nation is proud, hopeful, and ready to invest in its heroines.