Telecom giant MTN’s significant contribution to sports development in Ghana was recognized during a farewell dinner held for the Black Stars as they jet off to Ivory Coast for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Officials from the telecommunication company joined the President of the Republic Nana Akufo-Addo at the short event held on Tuesday (9 January), at the Golden Bean Hotel in Kumasi.
They include Guido Sopiimeh, Senior Manager Marketing Division representing the Chief Commercial Officer, Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer Executive and Simon Amoh a Senior Manager of Sales and Distribution. The rest are Charity Darko Corporate Communications Officer and Akosua Mensah Klutse Regional Marketing Officer.
MTN Ghana has been the headline sponsor for the senior national team since the 2022 FIFA World Cup staged in Qatar and has remained the same ahead of the Nations Cup.
Acknowledging the positive impact on sports, officials from the Ghana Football Association and other stakeholders thanked MTN for its commitment to promoting and supporting athletic endeavours in the country.
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has rallied the Black Stars to approach the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with self-belief and a “can-do” spirit.
He expressed optimism that the team can finally bring home the coveted trophy, which has eluded Ghana for over four decades.
This farewell marked the conclusion of the Black Stars’ pre-tournament preparations in Kumasi, which culminated in a goalless draw against Namibia on January 8. Drawn in Group B alongside Cape Verde, Egypt, and Mozambique, Ghana’s AFCON journey begins on January 14 against Cape Verde, followed by further matches against Egypt and Mozambique.
Echoing the President’s confidence, Minister Ussif expressed strong belief in Coach Chris Hughton’s team to end the AFCON trophy drought in Ivory Coast.
The Black Stars have already arrived in Abidjan where they will finalize their preparations before the crucial opening match against Cape Verde on Sunday.
SOURCE: DAILY Mail GH