The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has officially reopened the renovated Power Tennis Court in Accra. This action restores a key sporting facility that has served members of the Power Tennis Club for more than three decades.
The refurbished court, originally constructed in 1994, reopened on Saturday after extensive renovation works. These works were undertaken through the combined efforts of ECG management, its Board, executives of the Power Tennis Club, donors, and supporters. The reopening signifies a commitment to community engagement and sports infrastructure development.
This renovation aligns with broader efforts to improve public facilities and promote sports in Ghana. While not directly impacting the national economy, such investments contribute to social capital and youth development. Improved sports facilities can foster talent, potentially leading to international representation and associated national pride. The project also highlights the role of state-owned enterprises in corporate social responsibility.
Mr. Julius Kwame Kpekpena, Managing Director of ECG, described the reopening as a symbol of unity and collaboration. In a speech read on his behalf, he stated, “Today is not simply about reopening a tennis court; it is about celebrating what people can achieve when they work together with a shared purpose.” He further noted the court's significance, having stood at the heart of the Power Tennis Club for over 30 years.
The reopening of the Power Tennis Court is expected to boost local tennis activities and provide a modern venue for training and competitions. Decision-makers in sports and corporate Ghana will likely observe the impact of this investment on community engagement and sports participation. The Ghana Tennis Federation's appeal for more funding suggests a potential for increased corporate social responsibility initiatives from other state-owned entities.
Mr. Isaac Duah, President of the Ghana Tennis Federation (GTF), appealed for increased government and corporate investment in tennis. He emphasized that greater financial support would enable the sport to achieve greater international success. Mr. Duah highlighted Ghana's continued participation in the Davis Cup despite limited financial resources.
He proposed that state-owned institutions, including ECG, the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), and the Petroleum Commission, should adopt specific sports federations. This adoption would be part of their corporate social responsibility efforts, ensuring sustainable development for various sports. Such partnerships could provide a stable funding stream for sports federations.
The renovated court will provide opportunities for young people to develop their talents. It will also create employment for coaches and vendors, contributing to the local economy. Mr. Duah expressed confidence that the upgraded facility would significantly contribute to the growth of tennis in Ghana and inspire the next generation of players.
The project received support from various individuals, including Mr. Thomas Nyarko Ampem, Deputy Minister for Finance, and Mr. Patrick Yaw Boamah, Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central. Professor Cornelius Ekow Daniel, Chairman and Patron of the Power Tennis Club, also made a seed donation towards the facility's future development.