Former Black Stars Winger Francis Coffie Completes Six-Month Rehabilitation Programme

By Justice Ahoto 

Former Asante Kotoko and Black Stars winger Francis Coffie has successfully completed a six-month rehabilitation programme for alcohol addiction and has been discharged from the St. Francis Rehabilitation Centre in Ashaiman, marking a significant milestone in his journey towards recovery.

The former football star, who once dazzled fans with his performances for Asante Kotoko, the Black Stars and several clubs abroad, battled alcohol addiction in recent years following challenges encountered after his football career. The situation affected both his personal life and overall wellbeing.

His recovery journey began after an intervention by the Ghana Retired Footballers Welfare Association (GRFWA), which facilitated his admission to the rehabilitation centre and fully sponsored his treatment.

Speaking at a brief discharge ceremony, President of the Ghana Retired Footballers Welfare Association, Sarkin Mohammed Elias, expressed optimism about Coffie’s future, noting that his successful rehabilitation demonstrates that recovery is possible with the right support system.

According to him, Francis Coffie’s story should serve as an inspiration to retired footballers and others struggling with addiction to seek professional help and embrace the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

A Professional Addiction Counsellor at the St. Francis Rehabilitation Centre, John Teye Amartey, commended the former winger for his discipline, determination and commitment throughout the rehabilitation process.

He further cautioned young people against drug and substance abuse, stressing that addiction does not discriminate and can affect individuals regardless of their social status, profession or background.

As part of efforts to support Coffie’s reintegration into society, the Ghana Retired Footballers Welfare Association presented him with a cash donation of GH₵5,000, a tabletop refrigerator and a Smart TV under its welfare support initiative for retired footballers.

Former Tema East Member of Parliament and former Greater Accra Regional Minister, Titus Glover, who supported the initiative, congratulated the former footballer on his recovery and encouraged him to remain focused as he embarks on a new phase of his life.

Mr. Glover also urged both current and retired footballers to prioritise their health and seek assistance whenever they face personal or psychological challenges.

The discharge ceremony attracted retired footballers, family members and well-wishers, who gathered to celebrate Coffie’s recovery and encourage him as he begins a fresh chapter.

Meanwhile, arrangements are being made to secure suitable accommodation for the former player, who featured for clubs including CD Leganés, Ashanti Gold SC, Sudan’s Al-Merrikh and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Watani.

Francis Coffie says he remains determined to rebuild his life, restore his dignity and use his experience to inspire others facing similar struggles.