The former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has praised the Nana Akufo-Addo-led government for its efforts in establishing astroturf across the country.

He emphasizes the role of the facilities in developing football at the grassroots level.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Ussif highlighted the significance of these facilities and expressed optimism about their expanded use following the change of the ministry to include recreation.

Ussif commended the vision of the previous administration for ensuring that astroturfs were constructed nationwide, saying, "We can all testify, members of parliament are here; before Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, we had only two astroturfs in the entire country. But after 8 years, we can now count over 200."

He also welcomed the recent decision by President John Dramani Mahama to integrate recreation into the sports ministry’s mandate, noting that the existing infrastructure would play a pivotal role in promoting recreational activities.

“I'm happy because John Dramani Mahama has added recreation to the sports ministry,” Ussif continued.

“And if you're going to have a good recreation, these astroturf dotted in our constituencies and districts will be used to assist recreational activities in the region.”

The former minister’s remarks have emphasized the growing importance of sports infrastructure in fostering both competitive and leisure activities across Ghana.