Sportsmen and women have been called upon to disabuse their minds of the misconception that the use of drugs can enhance performance in any sporting event.

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Sheikh I.C. Quaye made the call at the opening of this year's Greater Accra Regional Sports Festival at Dodowa in the Dangme West District on Thursday.

Accra Metro, Ga East, Ga West, Dangme West, Dangme East and Tema Municipal Assemblies are taking part in the four-day festival of Soccer, Table Tennis, Athletics and Netball.

He said: “Let no one deceive you about drugs, all you need to do is to train hard so that your efforts will be rewarded.

He charged District Assemblies to establish more libraries, recreational centres and youth clubs in their communities to prevent the youth from spending their leisure time at drinking bars or engaging in nefarious activities.

Sheikh Quaye also advised the participants to desist from hooliganism that may tend to mar the beauty of the festival.

Mr. Michael Adjowerh-Nortey, Dangme West District Chief Executive said the occasion presented a unique opportunity to unearth talents in the various fields that have been left hidden or undiscovered

Mr. Adjowerh-Nortey said sports should be seen as a very important means of mobilizing and engaging the youth in different parts of the district.

It is as a result of this realization that the District Assembly has, over the years been making substantial budgetary allocations in its annual estimates to support sports activities in the district, he said.

The DCE called on churches, District Assemblies, individuals and parents to help the promotion of sports in the country, since the government alone cannot shoulder the responsibilities.

Source: GNA