Accra, March 10, GNA - The National Youth Council (NYC) in collaboration with the National Youth Project (NYP) have initiated a special fundraising strategy aimed at seeking financial support for the senior national team, the Black Stars ahead of the 2010 Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) in South Africa.

The initiative dubbed "The Big Dream" event is under the theme "Harnessing a youthful drive in national campaign for the Black Stars at the 2010 World Cup".

'The Big Dream' initiative is expected to create a World Cup fever at the grass roots level, integrate Supporters Unions, mobilize funds to raise hope and passion required to lead the Black Stars to win the 2010 World Cup. Over one million Ghana cedis is expected to be raised from the Project with fundraising exercises such as floats and tours throughout the ten Regions of the country.

A special mascot designed by the organizers will in addition be sent out to collate signatures of Ghanaians endorsing their support for the national team as part of the fundraising strategies. Gideon Aryeequaye, Communications Director of NYP at a press briefing in Accra, said the operation win '2010 World Cup by Ghana' is possible and achievable but will need the maximum support of all Ghanaians, especially the youth.

He said, "If it is possible to win silverware at the youth level, then it is also possible for the Black Stars to conquer the world in South Africa, hence the "Dream Big" initiative. The special mascot which has been designed purposely for the event has a huge Black Star standing in the map of Ghana with the red, yellow and green colours, with the right arm holding a football, whilst the left raises the World Cup trophy and was unveiled by Dr Sekou Nkrumah, Coordinator of the NYC.

Dr Nkrumah noted that the nation has the needed materials to win the World Cup in South Africa but that it was necessary and crucial to have the faith in achieving such a dream. He also added that the success of the Black Stars will also require the support of the entire nation, especially the youth to achieve the targets of winning the World Cup.

Dr Emmanuel Owusu Ansah, former Director of Sports at the Ministry of Youth and Sports commended the organizers for initiating the project adding that it will boost the chances of the Stars winning the World Cup. He said winning the World Cup is not beyond Ghana but requires the spirit of nationalism and patriotism demonstrated by the founding fathers of the country in 1957 to attain her Independence. The project will be officially launched on March 23, at the Banquet Hall, State House, Accra.