The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Mr Kofi Adams, has paid a courtesy call on the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as part of a renewed government push to rejuvenate critical sports infrastructure in the Ashanti Region.
The high-level meeting, held at the Manhyia Palace followed the Minister’s inspection tour of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium and the abandoned Nyinahini Sports Complex – two flagship facilities earmarked for urgent rehabilitation.
Accompanied by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, and senior officials from the National Sports Authority (NSA), the Minister briefed Otumfuo on the outcomes of the visits.
He noted that the inspection formed part of a broader presidential directive to overhaul key sports infrastructure nationwide, beginning with the Ashanti Region.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu expressed deep concern about the current state of neglect, emphasising the urgency of action.
He pledged his full backing for the Ministry’s initiative and underscored the transformative power of sports in building character, fostering unity, and unlocking opportunities for the youth.
“I fully support this initiative,” Otumfuo said, adding that, “Sports has the power to shape character, bring communities together, and create opportunities for our youth. It must not be overlooked.”
Speaking after the interaction, Mr Adams described the encounter as highly encouraging and reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to translate plans into tangible results.
“With Otumfuo’s guidance and support, we are confident in our ability to restore Ashanti’s legacy in sports and lay a solid foundation for future generations,” the Minister stated.
He added that investment in sports infrastructure goes beyond recreation as it drives youth engagement, talent development, and economic activity, particularly through job creation and event tourism.
According to some football connoisseurs, the Manhyia Palace meeting marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s broader sports revitalisation agenda.
It also highlights the strategic role of traditional leadership in shaping national development priorities.
As the government rallies resources and stakeholders, the Ministry says it was committed to ensuring that rehabilitation works were not only launched but completed and maintained for sustainable use.
With the Asantehene’s endorsement and national attention on Ashanti’s sporting heritage, hopes are high that a new chapter is beginning for sports in the region – one rooted in vision, collaboration, and lasting impact.
FROM KINGSLEY E. HOPE, KUMASI