Ghana’s Ministry Upholds Per Diem Limits, Demands Full Payment of Approved Allowances

Following a contentious review of Black Queens’ per diem requests, the Ministry of Finance has issued a firm directive, asserting that all previously approved allowances have been fully disbursed, effectively halting further claims.

The Ghana Ministry of Finance has delivered a stark statement regarding Black Queens’ per diem requests, triggering a significant reaction within the organization and raising concerns about the financial stability of the team. The Ministry’s official communication, released this morning, details a rejection of the per diem claims submitted by Black Queens, a prominent football team based in Accra, citing a need for greater transparency and adherence to established budgetary guidelines. The core of the issue revolves around a recent audit conducted by the Ministry’s Financial Intelligence Unit, revealing discrepancies in the disbursement of funds allocated for the team’s travel and operational expenses. Specifically, the audit flagged a potential shortfall in allowances for the team’s pre-season training and travel, prompting the Ministry to initiate a formal review of the existing per diem structure.

Black Queens, known for their consistently high performance and significant contributions to Ghanaian football, have been crucial in securing lucrative sponsorship deals and attracting international attention. Their financial success directly impacts the revenue stream for various government agencies, including the Ministry of Finance. The Ministry’s stance, as communicated in a press release issued this afternoon, is rooted in a meticulous assessment of the budgetary framework and a commitment to ensuring fiscal responsibility. The Ministry’s official statement emphasizes that the previous allowances were meticulously approved and budgeted for, with all payments made, resulting in a total of approximately $500,000 disbursed to the team, covering travel, accommodation, and essential logistical support.

However, the Ministry’s refusal to reconsider the approved allowances has ignited considerable debate within Black Queens’ leadership. The team’s head coach, Samuel Agyeman, voiced his disappointment during a brief press conference, stating, “This is a significant setback. We have invested heavily in our infrastructure and training, and these allowances are vital for maintaining our team’s readiness and competitiveness. The Ministry’s decision risks undermining our operational capabilities.” The team’s assistant coach, Patricia Nkosi, added,