FIFA has confirmed that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) received over USD 260,000 to maintain grass pitches in the country.

The revelation was made by a media outlet from Ghana, which had reached out to the world football governing body following the dire state of football pitches throughout the country.

The poor condition of many fields, including that of the national stadium, made Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia include the need for international standard pitches into his manifesto for the upcoming elections.

According to the media outlet, FIFA confirmed that the USD 260,000 was supposed to be spent on the installation of boreholes and water tanks.

FIFA also confirmed that it had contributed to the maintenance of natural grass pitches in 80 venues in Ghana through its FIFA Forward programme.

CAF pushes GFA out of Ghana

The news comes on the back of a letter by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that was sent to the GFA on Tuesday.

In it, it prohibits the use of the Baba Yara Stadium for international games.

CAF even advises to completely renovate the pitch.

“CAF recommends that the relevant authorities conduct a comprehensive assessment of all major international stadiums in Ghana to ensure they comply with CAF technical standards.

“Additionally, we advise that the stadium management engage experienced companies immediately to undertake the necessary refurbishment to meet CAF/FIFA standards. Upon completion of the renovation works, CAF will, at the GFA’s request and expense, conduct an independent inspection to reassess the stadium’s suitability for future matches,” the letter says.