By Yussif Ibrahim, GNA
Kumasi April 22, GNA – The United States Embassy in Ghana has announced a nationwide fan engagement drive dubbed: “16 by 16” initiative, aimed at bringing the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to all regions of the country.
Mr. Matthew Asada, Acting Public Affairs Officer at the Embassy, said the initiative, being implemented in collaboration with the Ghana Tourism Authority, would see organised watch parties and related activities held across the 16 regions to expand access to the global tournament.
He was speaking at an engagement with sports journalists in Kumasi focused on media coverage strategies for the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Mr Asada noted that, the Embassy, through its American Spaces, would actively participate in the initiative by supporting watch parties nationwide, particularly during matches involving the United States and Ghana.
He described the programme as an opportunity to connect fans across the country to the tournament, while promoting shared cultural experiences between Ghana and the United States, one of the host nations for the expanded 48-team competition.
“The 16 by 16 initiative is about ensuring that the World Cup experience is not limited to those who can travel, but is shared with communities across Ghana,” he said.
Mr. Asada said the Embassy was working with partners, including representatives of the initiative, to broaden public engagement and enhance the viewing experience through organised events and outreach activities.
He added that the Embassy had also taken steps to facilitate travel for Ghanaian fans who wished to attend matches in the United States, noting that, additional visa officers had been deployed to Accra to reduce waiting times for B1/B2 visitor visa appointments.
According to him, visa appointment waiting times had reduced significantly from 15 months in 2024 to less than one month in 2026, with some applicants able to secure interview dates within weeks.
Mr Asada highlighted ongoing capacity-building programmes for Ghanaian media practitioners, including training sessions organised by the Embassy to promote ethical reporting and accuracy in coverage of the national team.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and more than 100 matches across multiple cities.
GNA
Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/Linda Asante Agyei