Prosper Nartey Ogum signs two-year deal as Black Starlets head coach

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has handed Dr. Prosper Nartey Ogum a two-year contract as head coach of the Black Starlets, reinforcing its commitment to long-term planning and stability within Ghana’s youth football structure.

The appointment formalises Ogum’s role after he initially took charge of the national U-17 side following the departure of Frimpong Manso. His early impact has already been felt, guiding the team to qualification for the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled for April.

A statement of intent from the GFA

The two-year deal signals more than just a coaching appointment — it reflects the GFA’s renewed determination to rebuild Ghana’s dominance at youth level. Once a powerhouse in African and world youth football, the Black Starlets are now seeking a structured revival built on technical excellence, discipline, and long-term development.

By securing Ogum’s services on a longer-term contract, the GFA aims to provide continuity, institutional backing, and the strategic support necessary to nurture a competitive generation of players.

Ogum outlines long-term vision

Speaking after signing the deal, Dr. Ogum expressed appreciation for the confidence shown in him and emphasised the broader vision behind his project.

He highlighted the need to develop a technically sound, tactically disciplined, and mentally resilient team capable of competing consistently at the highest level in Africa. According to the coach, the objective goes beyond preparing for a single tournament; it is about laying a sustainable foundation for the future of Ghanaian football.

That philosophy aligns with his background in player development and structured training systems.

A proven track record

Dr. Ogum’s credentials extend beyond youth football. He famously guided Asante Kotoko SC to the Ghana Premier League title in 2022, restoring the club to domestic supremacy. Prior to that, he led WAFA SC to an impressive second-place finish, earning widespread praise for his tactical discipline and developmental approach.

His coaching résumé also includes spells with Ebusua Dwarfs and as assistant coach of the Black Galaxies, giving him a well-rounded understanding of Ghana’s football ecosystem.

Beyond the dugout, Ogum serves as the GFA’s Head of Education — a dual role that underscores his expertise in technical instruction, curriculum development, and talent grooming pathways. This combination of administrative insight and on-field leadership positions him uniquely to reshape Ghana’s youth football structure.

Focus on CAF U-17 AFCON 2026

Attention now turns to the 2026 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Black Starlets will aim not only to compete but to reassert Ghana’s authority on the continental stage.

Preparations are already underway, with the GFA pledging full technical and logistical backing to ensure the team is adequately equipped for the challenge ahead.

For a nation with a rich history at youth level — including multiple U-17 World Cup triumphs — the expectation is clear. The Black Starlets must once again become a symbol of excellence, discipline, and talent production.

With a stable contract, institutional support, and a coach renowned for structure and development, the Ogum era may mark the beginning of a carefully planned resurgence in Ghana’s youth football journey.