The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially launched the maiden edition of the KIVO U-17 Regional Champions Cup, a new initiative aimed at strengthening Colts football and providing a national platform for the country’s emerging talents.
The launch ceremony, held at the GFA headquarters on Thursday, November 5, 2026, brought together senior Association officials, representatives of tournament partners KIVO and JLAB, and other key stakeholders in Ghana football.
The competition will take place at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence from November 8 to 15, 2026, bringing together the best U-17 regional Colts champions to compete for national honours.
Delivering the keynote address, GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku described the tournament as more than a football competition, highlighting its potential to create opportunities for young players to showcase their abilities, represent their communities and advance their football ambitions.
“Today, we are not simply launching another football competition. We are unveiling an opportunity for young footballers across our regions to showcase their talent, compete at a higher level, represent their communities with pride and take another important step towards realising their football dreams,” he said.
GFA steps up investment in Colts football
The GFA President highlighted the GFA's investment in Colts football over the past six years, including an annual commitment of US$100,000 towards the procurement of footballs for grassroots development.
He also recalled the interventions announced at the launch of the 2026/27 Colts Football Season, which include 3,000 footballs, 15,000 football kits and additional logistical support for Colts clubs.
The Association will further distribute 15,000 pairs of casual shoes, alongside 15,000 jerseys and 10,000 footballs, as part of efforts to improve the conditions for youth participation and ease the operational burden on clubs.
Simeon-Okraku noted that the interventions reflect the GFA’s determination to strengthen the foundations of the game and ensure that young footballers have access to the essential resources needed to develop.
Kivo partnership to drive grassroots development
The President commended KIVO for partnering the GFA to deliver the competition, with JLAB serving as supporting sponsor.
He described the initiative as a strong example of the impact of collaboration between football authorities and the private sector, stressing that developing the game requires a collective effort from clubs, Regional Football Associations, government, corporate Ghana, development partners, parents, coaches and the media.
He urged participating players to approach the tournament with discipline, courage and respect, while calling on coaches and administrators to prioritise their welfare, safety and development.
The ceremony was attended by GFA Vice-President Mark Addo and Executive Council members Nana Sarfo Oduro, Eugene Nobel Noel, Alhaji Abu Hassan and Samuel Aboabire.
Also present were KIVO Marketing Manager Evans Koffie, Central Regional Football Association Chairman Robert Otieku Duncan, Ashanti Regional FA Chairman Osei Tutu Agyemang and Eastern Regional FA Chairman Lindford Asamoah Boadu.
Proudly sponsored by KIVO, with JLAB as supporting sponsor, the maiden KIVO U-17 Regional Champions Cup forms part of the GFA’s broader drive to revitalise Colts football, promote regional competition and create more pathways for the next generation of Ghanaian football stars
