The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has pledged to restore the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to an acceptable standard following a recent working visit to the facility.

He was accompanied by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and a team of technical experts from the ministry.

During the visit, the minister and his delegation assessed the current state of the stadium, which has suffered significant deterioration.

The Regional Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Kwame Baah Mensah, outlined a number of structural and operational challenges, including malfunctioning floodlights, damaged washrooms, outdated public address systems, worn-out reserve benches, high electricity costs, and non-functional irrigation systems.

He also cited security-related concerns in designated zones meant to protect players and officials.

Adams noted that his directive to undertake the rehabilitation project aligns with instructions from President John Dramani Mahama, who has prioritised the restoration of major sporting infrastructure across the country.

“The Baba Yara Stadium holds historic significance and must be restored to meet modern standards,” he said.

“Every effort will be made to ensure its revival.”

The stadium, located in Kumasi, was initially constructed in 1957 by the United African Company (UAC) and formally inaugurated as a football venue in 1959. It has since undergone several rounds of renovation, including major upgrades in 2008.

The most recent rehabilitation began in 2020, with the first phase completed and handed over in November 2022. That phase included upgrades to the pitch, tartan tracks, floodlights, and irrigation systems.

Despite these efforts, the stadium has experienced years of neglect, resulting in its current state. It was recently deemed unsuitable by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to host international fixtures.

The Baba Yara Stadium has historically been a key venue for high-profile matches, including a FIFA World Cup qualifier between Ghana and Nigeria.

It also serves as a traditional home ground for the Black Stars, who have often recorded strong performances at the venue.

Hon. Adams expressed confidence in the stadium’s economic and sporting potential.

"Beyond sports, this facility has the capacity to boost local economic activity. We are committed to restoring its value and purpose,” he stated.

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation is expected to announce further details on the restoration timeline and scope in the coming weeks.