The King and Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, has presented GH₵50,000 to Ghana’s National Under-15 male and female football teams following their participation in youth competitions in Burkina Faso.
The donation was made on Friday, December 5, 2025, when the teams paid a courtesy call on the Yagbonwura at the Jakpa Palace. The gesture came in response to an earlier appeal for support from the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Speaking on behalf of the King, Benkrowura Saaka, the Yagbonwura’s spokesperson, praised the young footballers for their efforts and resilience. He particularly commended the female team for their medal-winning performance, emphasizing the pride they brought to Ghana and the Gonja Kingdom.
Drawing from his own youthful footballing experiences, Benkrowura encouraged the players to remain committed to the sport. He described the financial support as a “token to drink water on the way,” a symbolic gesture of goodwill and encouragement from the traditional leader, who expressed regret at not being able to host the teams longer due to time constraints.
Head coach of the male U-15 team, Salifu Fatawu, thanked the Yagbonwura on behalf of the GFA. He explained that both teams had competed in Burkina Faso, with the male squad exiting early after being drawn into a challenging group with the host nation. The female team, however, advanced to the finals where they finished as runners-up after a closely contested match against Burkina Faso.
Coach Fatawu celebrated the female team’s silver-medal achievement, noting that “half a loaf is better than none,” and acknowledged that the King’s support and prayers had been instrumental in their journey.
The GFA delegation assured the Yagbonwura of their continued dedication to developing young football talent and expressed hope for sustained collaboration with traditional authorities. The teams departed the palace in high spirits, motivated by the King’s generosity as they prepare for future competitions.
