From Parlays to Kivo: Abedi Pele, Kudus and 2 Others Who Signed Major Food Endorsement Deals
- In today’s football era, the action doesn’t stop at full-time; players are now top picks for brand endorsements, becoming the faces of major products
- From the legendary Abedi Pele to current star Mohammed Kudus, Ghanaian footballers continue to attract marketers
- YEN.com.gh highlights four Ghanaian footballers who have landed endorsement deals with food brands
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Ghanaian footballers are increasingly becoming the go-to faces for food and beverage endorsements, aligning their star power with popular local brands.
From legendary figures to rising talents, their marketability has become a powerful tool for advertisers.
Source: Getty Images
Princella Adubea lands ambassadorial deal with Kivo
The latest to join this trend is Princella Adubea, who recently inked a deal that not only highlights her remarkable football journey but also pays tribute to a beloved Ghanaian treat.
Following her impressive performance at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where the Black Queens secured a bronze medal, according to CAF Online, Adubea has signed a new ambassadorial deal with Kivo.
She will represent the brand’s Energy+ Gari Soakings Mix, a modern twist on the traditional Ghanaian snack.
Source: Twitter
Long before Adubea’s breakthrough, several of Ghana’s football stars had already blazed the trail in the food endorsement space.
Top four Ghanaians who bagged deals with food products
4. Richard Kingson – Kalyppo
Back in 2006, when Ghana made its historic debut at the FIFA World Cup, Richard “Olele” Kingson wasn’t just guarding the goalposts. He was also boosting the profile of Kalyppo, the fruit juice that became a household name.
His catchy declaration, “I am Richard Kingson, Olele, 22, Black Stars,” struck a chord and helped the brand enjoy a huge buzz.
Kalyppo wasn’t just a drink anymore. It became a symbol, one that even made a big comeback during the 2016 election season.
3. Stephen Appiah – Vitamilk
Before his image became synonymous with sports betting companies and lifestyle brands, Stephen Appiah was already turning heads in the commercial world.
One of his early collaborations was with Vitamilk, the nutrient-rich soy drink known for its wholesome appeal.
With his sculpted build and commanding presence, Appiah was the ideal figure to promote healthy living, and Vitamilk couldn’t have chosen better.
2. Mohammed Kudus – Kivo Gari
In today’s game, Mohammed Kudus represents the new wave of footballers bridging cultures and modernity.
Now plying his trade with Tottenham Hotspur, the midfielder signed on as an ambassador for Kivo in 2024, per Managing Ghana.
Kudus’ endorsement isn't limited to gari soakings. He’s also linked to other products under the Procus Ghana Ltd label, including their range of pepper and spices.
Kudus joins TECNO’s Tech Movement
In addition to food endorsements, Mohammed Kudus now represents TECNO Mobile Ghana, aligning with their mission to bring innovative smartphones and smart accessories to everyday users.
The campaign taps into his Black Stars success and Ghana Footballer of the Year status, positioning him as the face of accessible tech in local communities.
What makes this partnership stand out is its focus on youth-driven progress. Kudus isn’t just promoting a device, he’s championing a mindset where technology meets purpose.
As someone who rose from humble beginnings to international stardom, Kudus fits TECNO’s vision of inspiring ambition through affordability and functionality.
His presence in the campaign also highlights the brand’s push to connect with the African youth market, not through flashy ads, but through relatable role models. It’s a strategic move that positions TECNO not just as a smartphone brand, but as part of the lifestyle and culture that today’s young Africans live and breathe.
1. Abedi Pele – Parlays Biscuit and FanMilk
Before branding became the juggernaut it is today, Abedi Pele was already a hot commodity in advertising.
During his prime, he headlined campaigns for Parlays Biscuit, a snack that once enjoyed massive popularity in Ghana.
But that wasn’t all. The Maestro also partnered with FanMilk, the company behind iconic products like FanIce and FanYogo.
These deals weren’t just business moves; they reflected his stature as the face of Ghanaian football on the global stage.
Richard Ofori bags ambassadorial role with Emporio Armani
In a related report, YEN.com.gh revealed that Richard Ofori has secured a notable achievement away from the field by landing an ambassadorial role with Emporio Armani.
The sidelined Black Stars goalkeeper now stands as one of the prominent faces representing the luxury brand’s flagship fragrance line.
Source: YEN.com.gh
