Ghanaian dancehall artiste Shatta Wale has alleged that the government owes him about GH¢5 million for promotional activities and advertisements he undertook in support of the Black Stars’ participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The musician said the outstanding amount covered postings, advertisements and other promotional work undertaken as part of efforts to rally support for Ghana’s campaign at the tournament.

Speaking in an interview with GHOne TV, Shatta Wale said he was yet to receive any payment despite having completed the work.

“With the World Cup that we did, you know we had to promote whatever…We were supposed to be paid. Up till now, I have not been paid. For the postings and ads, a lot. I think now they owe me about GH₵5 million," he said.

‘Not a penny’

The artiste expressed frustration over his attempts to obtain payment, alleging that calls to officials had gone unanswered.

“Oh, not a penny. You call the minister; he will not pick. The deputy minister of finance will also not pick it. Disrespect, total disrespect in this country,” he fumed.

His comments also expose a broader concern about the relationship between government institutions and creative industry professionals engaged to support national programmes, particularly where promotional services are provided under commercial arrangements.

The claim comes against the backdrop of a broader government-led fundraising and mobilisation campaign ahead of Ghana’s participation in the 2026 World Cup.

In June 2026, the government announced the release of GH¢76 million to support the Black Stars’ World Cup campaign, including GH¢58 million for preparations and group-stage expenses and GH¢17 million to settle outstanding qualification bonuses.

Shatta Wale had also publicly supported the national team’s campaign. During a fundraising initiative in March, he and his Hotwav team reportedly contributed US$100,000 towards the Black Stars’ World Cup efforts. That contribution was separate from the payment he says is owed for his promotional work.

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