The Central Region Rugby Association (CRRA) has begun discussions with the Ghana Prisons Service to establish a rugby club at the Ankaful Maximum Security Prison as part of efforts to use sport in the rehabilitation and development of inmates.

A delegation from the CRRA, led by its Chairman, Clement Dennis, and Public Relations Officer Peter Caesar Kwegyir Aggrey, met with officials of the Ghana Prisons Service at the facility.

The delegation presented a rugby ball to officials, marking the first step towards introducing the sport to inmates at the prison.

The association says the proposed club would provide inmates with an opportunity to learn and participate in rugby while promoting discipline, teamwork and talent development.

The initiative also forms part of plans to establish a Central Region Security Services Rugby Championship involving the Prisons Service, Ghana Police Service, Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Immigration Service and the Ghana Armed Forces.

According to the CRRA, the proposed competition could eventually be expanded to involve security services from other countries.

At the meeting, the CRRA delegation engaged DDP Joseph Asabre and DSP Philip Asomani of the Ghana Prisons Service on the proposed programme and its implementation within the prison environment.

Mr Dennis said rugby could contribute to the rehabilitation of inmates while helping to identify sporting talent.

"Rugby can change lives. Our vision is to use the game to build discipline, discover talent, create opportunities and bring our security services together through sport," he said.

The CRRA is expected to work with the Ghana Prisons Service on the next steps towards establishing the club and introducing regular rugby activities at Ankaful Maximum Security Prison.