Ghana’s football ecosystem is on shaky ground as one of its most influential financiers, Dr. Kwame Kyei contemplates a full exit from the sport. Though not the official owner of Nations FC, Kyei has been the major backer of the club who has offered critical financial and administrative support. His departure could trigger a ripple effect that deepens the already growing investor exodus from Ghanaian football.
Nations FC formerly Bekwai Youth Football Academy, was rebranded by his sons Divine and Paul Kyei Baffour in 2022. Though the club clarified that Dr. Kyei isn’t the legal owner but his influence and investment have been foundational. His potential withdrawal signals a larger crisis within the Ghana Premier League and football governance as a whole.
The story isn’t unique to Dr. Kyei but Several affluent Ghanaian businessmen who once had high hopes for transforming local football have either exited or expressed deep frustration:
Mr. Kwabena Kesse, the former owner of Kessben FC sold the club now known as Medeama SC. Dr. Kwaku Frimpong who was once at the helm of Ashanti Gold SC, stepped back after the club was demoted for match fixing and he was handed a 10 year ban.
Alhaji Karim Grusah, owner of King Faisal FC has become one of the loudest critics of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), openly calling for its dissolution. Barfour Awuah, owner of Nsoatreman FC, is reportedly in the process of selling his soccer academy, following the club’s withdrawal from the 2024/2025 Ghana Premier League due to security concerns.
The trend is alarming. Major financial players feel disillusioned and has cited poor governance, lack of transparency, and insecurity in the league. Alhaji Grusah in particular has called for state intervention as he urged the previous government to dissolve the GFA and start afresh. The GFA now faces a credibility crisis with many wondering who will step up to sustain football development in the country. As Dr. Kwame Kyei steps away, Ghana risks not just losing clubs but also the dreams and future of its local football.
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