Shatta Wale Performed for Free at 2025 President’s Cup - Sports Ministry

Accra, Ghana - 8 July, 2025 - Ghanaian dancehall star Shatta Wale performed a headline-grabbing set at the 2025 GHALCA President’s Cup without compensation, covering all production costs himself in a gesture to honor President John Dramani Mahama and celebrate national football, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation announced on 7 July.

The event, held on 6 July at a packed Accra Sports Stadium, marked a triumphant revival of Ghana’s premier domestic football showcase, drawing widespread praise for its blend of sport, entertainment, and innovative financing.

The President’s Cup, an annual match organized by the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) to honor the sitting president, featured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory by Kumasi Asante Kotoko over rivals Accra Hearts of Oak. Shatta Wale’s electrifying halftime and post-match performances, featuring hits like his 2016 track “Mahama Paper,” energized the capacity crowd, which included President Mahama, his daughter Farida, and dignitaries such as Sports Minister Kofi Adams and Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo.

The Ministry revealed that Shatta Wale, whose real name is Charles Nii Armah Mensah Jr., performed pro bono, funding expenses for dancers, costumes, rehearsals, and stage production through his Shaxi ride-hailing service.

True to his promise to deliver an experience that extended beyond football, the Minister engaged Shatta Wale, who not only agreed to perform pro bono but personally covered all costs related to his performance,” the Ministry stated.

In a social media post, the artist confirmed, “Let’s bring the love of football back, and Shaxi fully sponsored my performance,” earning commendations from fans and officials alike.

The 2025 edition, the 17th in the competition’s history, stood in stark contrast to the 2023 event, which drew fewer than 5,000 spectators. The Ministry credited the turnaround to strategic partnerships and a comprehensive media campaign led by Minister Adams, appointed in February 2025. A fundraising committee, chaired by Dr. Tony Aubynn and media personality Bola Ray, mobilized private and public sector support, ensuring the event was self-funded without public expenditure.

Free entry, a first for the President’s Cup, broadened access, while a friendly rivalry between the Ashanti and Greater Accra Regional Ministers and unified supporters’ groups fueled unprecedented enthusiasm. Supporting acts by artists like Kwaku Smoke, Bogo Blay, and Camidoh further amplified the event’s appeal, transforming it into a festival of sport and culture.Shatta Wale’s performance drew notable attention, with Black Stars striker Felix Afena-Gyan spotted dancing in the stands and political commentator Appiah Stadium praying for the artist at the stadium entrance, sparking mixed reactions online.

The artist also used the platform to urge Ghanaian youth to support President Mahama’s administration, citing its potential to deliver economic opportunities through youth-focused programs. His remarks, including a playful reference to Mahama as the “Smiling Mafia,” resonated with the crowd, particularly as the president was seen singing along to “Mahama Paper.”

The Ministry highlighted infrastructural improvements under Adams’ leadership, including a task force to maintain the Accra Sports Stadium’s pitch and renovations to meet CAF and FIFA standards. 

The President’s Cup’s record-breaking turnout underscores Ghana’s vibrant football culture, with Kotoko’s victory marking their ninth title in the competition’s history, surpassing Hearts of Oak’s six. The match, attended by celebrities like Stephen Appiah, Kwaku Manu, and Kalybos, reinforced the event’s status as a national celebration.