2026 WAFCON: Black Queens players demand unpaid bonuses, welfare support from authorities

Ghana’s senior women’s national team players have called on the relevant authorities to urgently address several outstanding financial and welfare concerns, including unpaid bonuses and improved support for the team, accusing the government of neglect and inadequate professional support during their campaign at the ongoing Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

In a statement issued by the Black Queens players, the team reaffirmed its commitment to representing Ghana but expressed frustration over what they described as several unresolved matters affecting the players and officials.

Among the concerns raised are outstanding bonuses dating back to the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, the WAFCON qualification bonus, group-stage bonuses and outstanding per diem payments.

The players also called for better management support and greater attention to their mental health and overall well-being.

“We, the players of the Black Queens, are proud to represent Ghana and remain fully committed to our country and the millions of Ghanaians who support us,” the statement said.

“However, we respectfully wish to raise concerns regarding several outstanding financial and welfare matters.”

The players said they continue to make significant sacrifices in their efforts to represent the country, stressing that they train, travel and compete under immense pressure.

They said their request was not intended to create conflict but was instead aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, fairness and respect.

The Black Queens players also expressed concerns over the level of engagement from government officials during their current campaign.

According to the statement, the Minister of Sports attended only their first official training session, while President John Mahama was also present at the same session.

“Apart from that occasion, we have largely had to rely on ourselves, our teammates or our technical staff throughout this journey,” the players said, while expressing appreciation to their staff for their support.

The players argued that financial commitments made to national team players should be honoured on time, while the welfare of national team representatives should be treated as a priority.

Despite the challenges, the Black Queens said they have remained focused on their responsibilities and continued to represent Ghana with pride.

They therefore appealed to the Ministry of Sports and other relevant decision-makers to listen to their concerns, engage with the players and work towards a swift resolution.

“We deserve the same commitment and support that we give to our country,” the statement concluded.

The development comes at a critical period for the Black Queens, who are currently involved in the race to secure Ghana a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup after their hopes of automatic qualification were ended at the 2026 WAFCON.

The Black Queens exited the WAFCON competition at the quarterfinal stage after a 2-1 defeat to Malawi, a result that ended Ghana's hopes of securing an automatic qualification spot for next year's FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

Ghana will face Côte d'Ivoire on Thursday with a place in the World Cup playoffs at stake.