Ghana Unveils 'Sparks Ladies' for 2026 Minifootball AFCON as Suniel Extends Support to Handball

The Ghana Minifootball Association (MAG) has officially launched the "Sparks Ladies," the nation’s first national women’s minifootball team, during a ceremony held in Adabraka. The team is set to represent Ghana at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled for later this year in Cameroon. MAG President Bernard Paakow Ekumah highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating that the formation of the Sparks Ladies is a strategic move to solidify Ghana's growing reputation in the sport across the continent and enhance their competitive standing.

During the unveiling, it was revealed that the squad consists primarily of players scouted from the Ghana Police Service division, ensuring a foundation of disciplined and competitive talent. Ghana currently holds an impressive 5th-place ranking out of 47 nations in African minifootball, and the association aims to use the upcoming tournament to climb even higher in the continental standings. President Ekumah emphasized that the team’s preparation is focused on maintaining this momentum and showcasing the talent of Ghanaian women on the international stage.

The event also served as a platform for significant corporate news, as the brand Suniel was confirmed as the official kit sponsor for the Sparks Ladies. In a notable expansion of their corporate social responsibility, Suniel announced it would extend its support beyond minifootball to include the national handball team. This dual sponsorship deal represents a major boost for sports often overshadowed by traditional football, providing essential gear and resources for athletes as they prepare for international assignments.

Edward Nii Lante Bannerman, President of the Ghana Handball Association, lauded the partnership while calling for more consistent financial support from the government and private sector for underfunded sports. Expressing his gratitude to the Director-General of the National Sports Authority for facilitating the handball sponsorship, Bannerman noted that such collaborations are vital for the survival and growth of diverse athletic disciplines in Ghana. As the Sparks Ladies prepare for their journey to Cameroon, the sports community remains focused on securing the future of these emerging disciplines through sustainable investment.