GFA, Kivo launch U-17 Regional Champions Cup

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has launched the maiden edition of the Kivo U-17 Regional Champions Cup as part of plans to strengthen grassroots football.

The competition was launched at the GFA Secratariat on Thursday, November 5, providing another platform for emerging talents across the country.

The 2026 Kivo U-17 Regional Champions Cup is scheduled to commence on November 8, with 13 teams expected to compete for laurels for the one-week tournament.

The inaugural edition of the tournament will be played at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, bringing together regional U-17 champions.

Speaking at the event, the GFA president, Kurt Okraku, described the competition as an important addition to the country’s youth football structure.

“Today, we are not simply launching another football competition. We are unveiling an opportunity. 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,” Okraku said.

“This is what grassroots football is about. It is about discovering talent, nurturing potential, creating opportunities and building the foundation upon which the future of Ghana football will stand.”

Group A will comprise Raymond FC of the Ashanti Region, Sunyani Great Young Kotoko (Brong Ahafo), Show Show FC (Eastern), Tarkwa Barcelona FC (Western), Yaasin Colts FC (Upper West), Elite Academy-Achimota School (Greater Accra) and Elite Academy-Prempeh College (Ashanti).

Group B will also feature Cheetah FC (Central), Desidero Football Academy (Greater Accra), Young Lions FC (Northern), Sogakope Cule FC (Volta), Bolga Soccer Masters (Upper East) and Elite Academy-Bolgatanga Senior High School (Upper East).

The final of the tournament will be played on November 15.