The King and Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, has donated GH₵50,000 to Ghana’s National Under-15 male and female football teams, offering a timely financial lift following their return from international tournaments in Burkina Faso.
The gesture was made when the teams paid a courtesy call at the Jakpa Palace on Friday, 5th December, 2025. The donation follows an earlier appeal for support from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to aid the teams in their participation in the just-ended youth competitions.
Speaking on behalf of the King, Benkrowura Saaka, the Yagbonwura’s spokesperson, praised the young footballers for their efforts and resilience, using personal anecdotes from his own youthful footballing days to encourage them. He commended especially the female team for their medal-winning performance, emphasizing the pride they brought to Ghana and the Gonja Kingdom.
Benkrowura said the King was deeply appreciative of the visit, noting that although time was limited, the Yagbonwura wished he could host and cater for the players longer. He described the GH₵50,000 support as a “token to drink water on the way” a symbolic gesture of goodwill, care, and encouragement.
The head coach of the male U-15 team, Salifu Fatawu, expressed the GFA’s gratitude. He explained that the teams had traveled with two squads, male and female to Burkina Faso. The male team was drawn into a tough group with the hosts and exited earlier than expected, while the female team progressed to the finals, finishing second after a hard-fought match against Burkina Faso.
Coach Fatawu commended the players for their determination and highlighted that “half a loaf is better than none,” celebrating the female team’s silver-medal achievement. He emphasized that the King’s support and prayers played a vital role in their journey.
The GFA delegation assured the Yagbonwura of their continued commitment to nurturing young football talent and expressed hope for ongoing collaboration with traditional authorities.
The teams departed the palace in high spirits, energized by the King’s generosity and inspired by his words of encouragement as they look ahead to future competitions.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
