The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has commended the Duamenefa Foundation for its exceptional role in using sports as a vehicle for peace, unity, and community development in the Volta Region and beyond.

Delivering a speech on behalf of the Chief of Staff during the grand durbar of the 7th Duamenefa Tournament, Mr Elvis Afriyie Ankrah described the initiative as a shining example of how collaboration, discipline, and community spirit can drive national progress.

He noted that the development of Ghana cannot be complete without the advancement of the Volta Region, emphasising the need for all stakeholders to collaborate to ensure that opportunities reach every corner of the country, especially for the youth.

“The young people we celebrate here today must be guided to balance talent with education, because the future belongs to those who combine skill with knowledge,” he said. “We must invest in education, leadership, and technical training so that, as sons and daughters of this great nation, we fulfil our mission with excellence and purpose.”

Mr Afriyie Ankrah highlighted the Duamenefa Foundation’s vision of promoting peace and social harmony through sports, describing it as a timely message for the nation.

“The message of Duamenefa, ‘Let us coexist in peace’, could not have come at a better time. Ghana needs peace not just during elections, but every day in our homes, communities, and workplaces,” he stated.

He expressed appreciation on behalf of the Chief of Staff to the organisers, players, and community leaders for their continuous dedication and commended the Foundation’s CEO, Mr Emmanuel Ketaman Evortepe, for his leadership and commitment.

Mr Evortepe, in his closing remarks, made a heartfelt appeal for the construction of an AstroTurf pitch to enhance sports development and youth participation in the region.

Volta Regional Minister Pledges Support for Sports Development

The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, also commended the Duamenefa and Tanko Foundations for their tireless efforts in promoting peace and empowering the youth through sports.

He lauded the government’s decision to abolish the betting tax, describing it as a policy that would advance sports development and create opportunities for young people.

“The advancement of sports in this country, particularly in the Volta Region, is benefiting greatly from the government’s decision to abolish the betting tax. Our young people are happy, and as a government, we are committed to improving sports infrastructure so that they can excel nationally and internationally,” he said.

MP Edem Agbana Commends Sponsors, Calls for Urgent Upgrade of Ho Sports Stadium

The Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Hon. Edem Eric Agbana, expressed deep appreciation to the Tanko Foundation and the Sesi Edem Group of Companies for their continued sponsorship of Duamenefa Foundation programmes over the years.

He urged other organisations to emulate their example by supporting the Foundation’s vision, particularly the construction of an AstroTurf field to serve the region’s youth.

Hon. Agbana also appealed to the government to urgently rehabilitate the Ho Sports Stadium, emphasising its importance to tourism, youth empowerment, and regional pride.

“There is an urgent need for serious infrastructural investment in the Ho Sports Stadium,” he said. “Improving our sports facilities will not only uplift our young people but also attract major sporting events that can enhance tourism and development.”

A Call for Unity and Shared Purpose

The event concluded with a unifying message from the Duamenefa Foundation, urging all communities to work together in peace and harmony.

“Let us continue together as one people, with one destiny, and under one God. You are truly wonderful. Let us coexist in peace. Thank you, and may God bless you all,” the closing statement read.

The grand durbar once again highlighted the power of sports as a tool for peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and social transformation in the Volta Region and across Ghana.