
Audio By Carbonatix
The Director-General of the National Sports Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has promised to give “200%” to ensure the maintenance of various national facilities across the country.
Parliament approved 65 million cedis for the Sports Ministry, but with meager resources available for the upkeep of infrastructure.
Former Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul raised the alarm that “not even 10 million cedis [was given] to at least take care of the pitches” and that “capital injection” is needed to avoid facility deterioration.
In an exclusive interview with JoySports, the NSA Director-General admitted that the resources available are “not much,” but the body remains determined to execute its job.
"Much has not been given but more is expected so we are not under any illusion as to the task ahead and I think that is where the challenge is positive," Ampofo Ankrah said.
"We need to think outside the box, we need to be innovative in the way we try to bring in funding, resources, expertise, technicalities and we did it with the first game [Ghana vs Chad].
"I think we are going to make a mark. I am very excited to be here at this time and what I can assure is that we will give 200%. We can't give a 100% because that might not be enough. We need to double our efforts and that is exactly what we intend to do."
Renting out national stadiums has become the NSA's primary source of income in recent years, but the practice has proven counterproductive, as the facilities are often left in a deplorable state.
In July 2024, the Baba Yara Stadium was rented out for a five-day 'Kumuyi' Church program, which left the pitch in poor condition ahead of Ghana's clash against Angola in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
It led to CAF revoking the stadium’s license to host international matches.
Latest Stories
-
NPP not against investigations, but use of bail to intimidate opposition – Baffuor Awuah
2 hours -
Ghanaian youngster Ernest Ofori trials with Swedish side Falkenberg FF
2 hours -
Why climate adaptation has become an economic imperative
3 hours -
The Brenner dispute: Can Europe protect the environment without slowing trade?
4 hours -
Gov’t will not shield officials who break the law – Legal Affairs Committee vice chair
4 hours -
Ashanti Region car dealers cry out as KMA begins evictions on Ahodwo-Santasi stretch
4 hours -
FDA Upper West destroys expired, banned products including hydroquinone cosmetics
5 hours -
My girlfriend helped me buy my first house – Konnected Minds Podcast Founder reveals
5 hours -
Burnham says he is ‘finalising’ cabinet ahead of becoming PM on Monday
5 hours -
I took a loan to start my pharmacy business – Konnected Minds Founder
6 hours -
Economy Committee warns institutions against ignoring invitation, threatens sanctions
6 hours -
Ghana’s poultry self-sufficiency stagnant at 12% – Agri-Impact CEO
6 hours -
Rev Mrs Grace Millicent Laatele Addo (Nee Laate)
6 hours -
Health experts urge caution over mandatory US military testosterone screenings
6 hours -
West Indies legend Sobers dies aged 89
7 hours