The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, says government is introducing measures to protect athletes and fans from trafficking and fraud as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking at a national forum on trafficking in sports, organised by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on Thursday, Adams warned that major global tournaments often create opportunities for exploitation if proper safeguards are not in place.
“As we prepare towards the FIFA World Cup 2026, we are mindful that the risks do not only affect athletes. Even fans, can fall into the hands of fraudulent operators.”
He said government is working to make travel arrangements for supporters safer and properly regulated ahead of the tournament.
“Government is therefore working to ensure that all travel arrangements are properly structured, verified, and secure, so that every Ghanaian who travels does so safely and returns home safely.”
The Buem MP also linked the issue to wider concerns about trafficking in sport, calling for tighter regulation of agents and stronger checks on opportunities offered to athletes.
The forum, themed “Play It Safe: Choose the Right Path in Sports,” is part of the IOM’s wider campaign to reduce trafficking risks and protect people involved in sport.
Ahead of the event, the IOM also held a training session for journalists in Accra on Wednesday to improve awareness and reporting on trafficking-related issues in sports.
By: Pascal Amoah
