Ghanaian football icon Abedi Ayew ‘Pele’ has underlined the need for financial education in sports, using his experiences as a player and investor.
Addressing the closing ceremony of the FIFA Financial Governance Workshop (Accra Marriott Hotel), he advised the GFA to disseminate key insights to local clubs.
Representatives from 10 African nations convened for an event marking a pivotal moment in strengthening financial governance across the continent’s football landscape.
Designed for General Secretaries and CFOs, it fostered collaboration and knowledge sharing and reinforced financial transparency and accountability in sports.
A heartfelt speech from Ayew deeply moved the audience at the impactful and informative workshop, whose distinguished career included stints at Olympique Marseille, Lyon, and Al Ain.
“It is a privilege to be here, standing alongside you all to close this remarkable program,” he stated. “As an investor in football, my decision to give back to the sport was inspired by the support and opportunities I received throughout my playing career. Financial literacy is crucial in football, and I am a firm advocate of it,” he said.
“I call on the Ghana Football Association to share the knowledge gained from this training with our clubs so they can grasp the importance of sound financial management. Effective financial governance is essential for safeguarding the future of our football.
“Football associations and federations must teach our clubs about sound financial management. The Ghanaian football legend and FC Nania founder urged the implementation of these lessons to improve and build the game.
Financial management, accountability, transparency, and efficient resource use within football organizations were the key subjects of a three-day workshop.
Participants learned the tools and knowledge necessary to strengthen their organizations’ financial structures, promoting long-term sustainability and efficient resource use. 
As the workshop ended, soccer maestro Abedi Pele presented participants with custom sashes and signed jerseys.