Telecommunications market leader, MTN has sponsored over 163 Ghanaian football fans, stakeholders, and enthusiasts on an all-expenses-paid trip to Ivory Coast for the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Departing from Accra on Saturday morning, the excited group of 163 Ghanaian beneficiaries boarded an Emirates flight bound for Abidjan, beginning a 10-day adventure to cheer on the Black Stars in the continental football extravaganza.
This generous gesture by MTN is a testament to their commitment to rallying support for the senior national team and ensuring the nation’s pride in the prestigious tournament. Notably, this marks the largest number of supporters MTN has ever sent to any football competition, showcasing their dedication to fostering fan engagement and national spirit.
The sponsored package includes a host of benefits for the lucky fans, such as return flight tickets via Emirates, accommodation for 10 nights with daily breakfast, one additional meal per day, ground transportation within Abidjan, two days of tourism activities, match tickets for Ghana’s group-stage matches, and a token of airtime for roaming per diem.
For many of the fans, this opportunity is a dream come true, providing them with the chance to be part of the AFCON experience and support the Black Stars in all three of their group-stage matches.
Denzel Adjei from Kumasi, expressing his excitement, stated, “This is my first time going to the AFCON, and I am looking forward to a wonderful experience cheering the Black Stars to victory.”
Eben Odame from Accra, fortunate enough to be part of the MTN-sponsored trip for the second time after the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, expressed his delight at going to the African Cup for the first time.
“I would like to try the popular Ivorian food, like Acheke,” he said, adding that catching up with old schoolmates would be an additional source of enjoyment.
Fans like Kojo Shaddy, a student in Accra, view the trip as a grand opportunity, especially considering that he has never been to a stadium before. “It’s amazing,” he exclaimed, anticipating the electrifying atmosphere at the stadium during the matches.
Abigail Amankwah, attending the tournament for the first time, expressed her gratitude to MTN for the opportunity, emphasizing her relaxation plans and hope that Ghana would bring the trophy home.
Aisha Osman, attending the tournament for the second time, couldn’t contain her excitement, stating, “I hope they qualify to the next stage so we can continue to support them. Thanks to MTN.”
With the backing of MTN and other stakeholders, expectations are high among fans that the Black Stars, led by Andre Dede Ayew, will make a strong push for AFCON glory, aiming to lift the trophy for the first time in 42 years.
