The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, (LOC) of the Ghana 2008 26th MTN Africa Cup of Nations, Ghana 2008, Dr Kofi Amoah has assured licensees of merchandized paraphernalia of the protection of their rights and against ambush marketing. Some of the companies, institutions and organizations have so far invested heavily to secure license for their products, which the LOC Chairman believes will be improper for others to benefit through the back door. Dr Amoah, who said this at the official launch of the merchandize for the January 20 – February 10 Championships, added that the LOC will want the licensees to use their products as a vehicle to showcase Ghana’s culture and lifestyle to the expected one million visitors to the event. “We won’t countenance ambush marketing and will deal with all those who would be found guilty.” Dr Amoah gave the assurance that the LOC was determined to create a cordial environment for the licensees to recoup their investments on their products by providing merchandizing zones at all the venues at the Ohene Djan- Accra, Baba Yara - Kumasi, Essipong - Sekondi and Tamale sports stadiums for them to exhibit their products. The LOC Chairman advised the licensees to implore efficient distribution techniques to derive the expected benefits. Magnus Rex Danquah, Chief Operating Officer of LOC outlined the vision of the Secretariat saying that their doors were open to interested persons, companies and organizations interested in the production of merchandized paraphernalia for the tournament to do so. Majority of the Licensees for the first time had the opportunity to display some of their products to the public. The products included key rings, flags, branded footballs, T-shirts, bottled water, stickers, armbands, bandanas, polo shirts, wrist bands, shopping bags, drinking glasses etc. The licensees promised that their products will soon be on sale at various approved outlets which is expected to aid in the hype of the three-week soccer fiesta. Source: GNA