Weija-Gbawe MP and Second Deputy Minority Whip, Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has urged government and sporting authorities to establish a national support system for athletes who suffer career-ending injuries while representing Ghana.

Addressing Parliament, the MP highlighted the case of former U-17 goalkeeper Ali Jarrah — a national hero who is still struggling to survive after an injury during a match in 1993.

“The government must establish a comprehensive support system for former athletes who have suffered career-ending injuries while representing Ghana,” Hon. Shaib said.

“This should include medical care, financial assistance, entrepreneurial support, and recognition programs that acknowledge their contributions.”

Despite winning the global laurels for Ghana, Jarrah has spent over three decades struggling to survive, with his chalk-making business becoming his only source of income. Hon. Shaib called this reality a national disgrace.

“While we celebrate our sporting achievements and bask in the glory brought by our athletes on international stages, we have failed to establish comprehensive support systems for those who suffer life-altering consequences while representing Ghana.”

He stressed that such a framework would prevent future neglect of athletes who sacrifice their health and futures in service to the country.

“Let Ali Jarrah’s story be the last of its kind in Ghana’s sporting history,” the MP urged. “Our sporting heroes who lose their source of livelihood while carrying Ghana’s flag deserve our unwavering support, not our neglect. They deserve recognition, not abandonment. They deserve dignity, not despair. The time for action is now.”