The Ghana Sports Fund (GSF) has significantly increased its engagement with stakeholders in the Ashanti Region. This outreach is a key step before a planned meeting with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The fund is making a strong appeal for immediate investment. It also seeks sustainable funding to repair and improve sports facilities throughout Ghana.
Leading the GSF delegation are Board Chairperson Prof. Anim-Wright Koryoe and Administrator Dr David Kofi Wuaku. They, along with Deputy Administrator Lawyer Simon Appiah Junior, visited the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. Their discussions there focused on the poor condition of stadiums. They explored ways to create lasting maintenance plans. They also talked about better cooperation to help Ghana's sports sector grow.
This effort fits into a larger plan by the GSF. The fund is consulting people all over Ghana. The goal is to build strong working relationships. It wants to gather support and promote steady money for sports. This includes helping young people develop their talents. The GSF's work is crucial for Ghana’s economic diversification. Better sports facilities can attract events and create jobs. This aligns with the government's focus on infrastructure development.
Nana Gyaama Darkwa, the Ashanti Regional Director of Sports, voiced serious worries. She highlighted how sports buildings have been ignored for years. Many facilities need repair despite heavy use. She stated the Baba Yara Sports Stadium faces money problems. This makes major renovations very hard. The stadium’s monthly running costs are high. These include cleaning and utility upkeep. Generated income does not cover these costs. Some equipment, like escalators, have been broken for over a year.
Lawyer Simon Appiah Junior from the GSF spoke about their dedication. The fund is focused on collecting money and forming partnerships. These will aid sports growth. He believes fairness and skill are vital in developing athletes. Decisions about supporting sportspeople must be based on expertise. He also stressed continuous teamwork. This is needed for long-term funding. This funding supports buildings, athlete training, and sports management.
The meeting with the Asantehene will cover the GSF’s mission. It will explore chances for sports and youth growth. The role of traditional leaders in improving sports places will be discussed. The GSF plans similar talks with other chiefs and important people. This aims to create wide support for lasting sports development across Ghana.