A major community football tournament aimed at strengthening unity among Zongo communities in Ghana is set to return as the 2026 Sheikh Sharubutu Rama
A major community football tournament aimed at strengthening unity among Zongo communities in Ghana is set to return as the 2026 Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup begins on March 22 at the Madina Astroturf in Accra.
The competition, which has grown into one of the most popular community football events during the Muslim fasting season, will feature 16 teams competing for honours in the 11th edition of the tournament.
The official launch of the competition was held on March 13 at the conference hall of the National Mosque, bringing together football administrators, community leaders, and representatives of participating teams.
Among the dignitaries present at the ceremony was a representative of the Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam. Dr. Abubakar Marzuq represented the Chief Imam at the launch, which also attracted former Chairman of the Zongo Development Fund, Lawyer Seidu Nasigri, as well as organisers of the tournament, officials from participating communities and members of the “Die Hard” Supporters Union.
The launch ceremony also featured the official draw for the tournament, setting the stage for what organisers expect to be a fiercely competitive contest among the participating Zongo communities.
Defending champions Adabraka Zongo will begin their title defence against Ashaley Botwe in the seventh fixture of the opening day, while Sabon Zongo will take on Nsawam in the first match to officially kick-start the tournament.
Introduced in 2015, the Ramadan Cup was established to honour the contributions of the National Chief Imam, Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, and to promote unity, youth development, and peaceful coexistence among Zongo communities across the country.
Over the years, the competition has evolved into a platform for discovering grassroots football talent while also strengthening community bonds during the Ramadan period.
Ahead of the 2026 edition, Ghana international stars Mohammed Kudus and Kamaldeen Sulemana have thrown their support behind the tournament.
The two Ghana national football team forwards have pledged to sponsor individual prizes for outstanding performers and provide jerseys for participating teams, further boosting the appeal of the competition.
Organisers believe the support from national team players will inspire young footballers within the Zongo communities and encourage broader participation in grassroots football.
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