Dr. Frank Kusi, a lecturer at the School of Sports and Exercise Medicine at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), has called on the government to be deliberate in using sport as a strategic tool for national development.

Speaking during an event to mark the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP), Dr. Kusi stressed the need for government policies to incorporate sport into development plans, particularly within educational and workplace environments.

He emphasised the importance of corporate recreation and physical activity in organisational settings, highlighting how such initiatives can improve health, reduce stress, and promote workplace cohesion.

“This is a call that we are pleading through this data. It is going to help individuals to be healthy,” Dr. Kusi said.

He further urged the government to align its efforts with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) global agenda of creating an active society by 2030 to ensure a healthy and productive citizenry.

This year’s celebration, which was held on 4th April instead of the official date, 6th April, was organised by UHAS in collaboration with the International Learning Trade Committee.

Dr. Kusi explained that the change in date was to allow for full participation, as 6th April fell on a Sunday. The event brought attention to the global significance of sport as a tool for peace and development, particularly in the context of the United Nations’ long-standing commitment to this cause.

He reflected on the origin of the celebration, noting that the idea was first launched in India in 2014, and not previously been marked in Ghana.

Dr. Kusi said the initiative by UHAS was partly to honour the legacy of Kofi Annan, the former UN Secretary-General, who played a pivotal role in promoting sport for development during his tenure.

According to him, “Sport has a role in promoting health, building cohesion, and contributing to national development.”

He called on all stakeholders—including the government, sports federations, and civil society—to adopt and prioritise sport for development practices. He noted that intentional policies and action plans are important for unlocking the full potential of sport in national growth.

The Dean of the School of Sports and Exercise Medicine at UHAS, Prof. Nii Korley Kortei, in his address, announced that the School will lead annual celebrations of the day in Ghana to honour the legacy of the late UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan.

He emphasised the School’s dedication to promoting sport as a tool for dialogue, inclusion, and public health, saying, “Sport is not just an amusement, but a powerful tool for progress and unity.”

Prof. Kortei concluded with a call to action, urging continued collaboration with institutions advancing the role of sport in society. He envisioned a future where sport serves not only as a means of physical activity but as a driver of social cohesion and sustainable development.

Angela Konedu of Republic Bank, sponsors of the event, speaking to Joy News during the event, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting sports initiatives in educational institutions and beyond. She reiterated that Republic Bank remains an active partner in efforts to promote health and well-being through sport.

Madam Konedu tied the bank’s support to the broader goals of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which focuses on good health and well-being.

She explained that healthier communities form the basis of stronger economies, and that supporting sports initiatives aligns with the bank’s vision of social impact and national prosperity.

She added that when communities are given opportunities to thrive through physical activity and sport, the ripple effect benefits the entire nation.

As such, Republic Bank remains committed to initiatives that promote public health and foster community resilience.