By Philip Tengzu
Jirapa, (UW/R), July 01, GNA – Football enthusiasts in Jirapa had an exciting World Cup match viewing experience following a partnership between the Universal Merchant (UMB) and the Anwelle Foundation to provide a live screening of Ghana’s clash against Croatia.
Despite the Black Stars’ defeat, scores of supporters who gathered at the Jirapa Naayiri Hall and Passion Pub demonstrated their unwavering support for the national team as they remained enthusiastic from kickoff to the final whistle.
The Anwelle Foundation had been screening the World Cup matches in Jirapa from the start of the tournament to enable people in Jirapa, particularly the youth, to enjoy the games while building social cohesion.
Screening of the Ghana vrs Croatia match on Saturday, June 27, 2025, was exceptional as the UMB, the official banking partner of the Black Stars, rewarded loyal supporters with branded Ghana jerseys.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) after the event, Mr Emmanuel Kog Deribaa, a team member of the Anwelle Foundation, commended UMB for supporting community-based initiatives.
He said partnerships between corporate institutions and community-based organisations played an important role in promoting sports while strengthening social cohesion.
“When institutions support initiatives like this, they are not only promoting football but also strengthening community bonds.
We are grateful to UMB for believing in our vision and helping us reward the loyalty of our supporters”, Mr Deribaa said.
The jerseys were presented to football fans who had consistently watched the Anwelle Foundation’s World Cup live screenings since the tournament began.
Also, some viewers received the Ghana jerseys after correctly answering questions about the activities and impact of the Anwelle Foundation during an interactive session.
The Foundation further distributed Made-in-Ghana chocolates to the supporters to promote local products while expressing appreciation for their continued loyalty to the Black Stars.
Despite the loss, Ghana secured qualification to the Round of 32, sparking fresh celebrations among supporters, who turned their attention to the team’s next fixture against Colombia on Saturday.
Ms Rahinna Suleman, a participant who benefited from the branded Ghana jersey, praised the Anwelle Foundation for promoting the Jirapa community through community-focused programmes.
He said the Foundation had demonstrated that meaningful community activities could unite people while projecting a positive image of the municipality.
“We have been here for every match since the tournament began, and it’s encouraging to see our commitment appreciated.
I want to commend the Anwelle Foundation for bringing Jirapa into the limelight through initiatives like this.
We hope more organisations will support such initiatives because they bring people together and inspire others to get involved”, Ms. Suleman said.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Philip Tengzu