The air crackled with anticipation at the University of Ghana Stadium as the 2024/25 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season drew to a close. Despite heavy rains, fans poured in, eager to witness the culmination of a season that Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has hailed as a testament to the power of strategic investment in women’s football. The vibrant atmosphere underscored a growing enthusiasm for the sport, a sentiment echoed by Okraku himself as he presented trophies to the victorious teams. This year’s WPL season not only crowned new champions but also highlighted the burgeoning potential of women’s sports in Ghana, driven by dedicated athletes and visionary leadership. The success of the WPL has demonstrated the power of proper investment.

“It was a day I was very much looking forward to because it was a day reserved for us to celebrate women’s football, and we called that day the Women’s Football Festival,” Okraku said, encapsulating the celebratory spirit that permeated the event. The Women’s Football Festival, a new highlight of the season, served as the stage for the FA Cup final and the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League showdown, drawing significant attention to the sport.

The Women’s Football Festival was the culmination of the women’s football season, featuring the finals of the FA Cup and the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League. Held at the University of Ghana Stadium, the event saw GFA President Kurt Okraku presenting trophies to the winning teams. The impressive attendance, even amidst heavy rains, showcased the growing interest in women’s football in Ghana.

Faith Ladies emerged victorious in the FA Cup, clinching the title after a tense penalty shootout against Jonina Ladies. Meanwhile, Police Ladies secured their first-ever league title, triumphing over Ampem Darkoa Ladies. Okraku extended his congratulations to both teams, acknowledging their outstanding performances and unwavering dedication throughout the season. “Police Ladies and Faith Ladies deserve all the congratulations because they put up their very best,” Okraku noted, emphasizing the hard work and commitment that propelled these teams to success.

Okraku emphasized that the investment in female sports over the past five years is “beginning to yield fruit.” He pointed to the improved level of competition, the increased enthusiasm from both clubs and fans, and the resurgence of the Black Queens on the international stage as evidence of this progress. The Black Queens are actively preparing for the upcoming WAFCON, aiming to regain their prominence among the top teams in Africa. “The investment that we have made in female sports over the last five years is beginning to yield fruit,” Okraku stated, underscoring the importance of continued support and resources for women’s football.

Looking ahead, Okraku envisions a future where women’s football in Ghana continues to ascend to even greater heights. He anticipates Faith Ladies and Police Ladies competing on higher platforms, showcasing their talent and representing Ghana with pride. He also expressed a desire to see all teams give even more respect to female sports, demonstrating a higher level of dedication and professionalism. “I’m looking forward to seeing them compete on a much higher platform,” Okraku affirmed, setting a clear aspiration for the future of women’s football in the country.

The 2024/25 WPL season stands as a landmark moment for women’s football in Ghana. The progress shows the impact of Kurt Okraku’s leadership and strategic investments. The victories of Faith Ladies and Police Ladies, along with the resurgence of the Black Queens, highlight the sport’s growing potential and progress. The question remains: how can fans and stakeholders continue to support this remarkable growth and ensure continued success on both national and international stages?