Story by: Bernard Nyankomago Kwasi
As politicians gather their acts together to hit the various campaign platforms to canvass for votes whether in internal or national elections, Ghanaians, especially the youth will surely be waiting for their vision in sports development.
Over the years, one fine politician who has demonstrated great and good heart for sports, especially football is Honourable Kwadwo Baah Agyemang (KBA), former MP for Asante Akim North Constituency.
Apart from the opportunities he has given to some Ghanaian youth, particularly football talents in Asante Akim North through his SportsLife Academy, he has also followed the domestic league and national teams with keen interest.
KBA, as he is well known loves football to the hilt. It was therefore a step in a right direction when President Akufo Addo appointed him as Board Chairman for the National Sports Authority (NSA). He delivered his work to perfection despite the unnecessary pressure he encountered from some Ghanaians at a point in time.
He was also the President for Teqball Federation in Ghana and Chairman for Asante Akim North, South, Central and Bosome Freho District Football Association.
In addition to his vast contribution to sports and as means of serving his people, Hon. KBA further introduced Asante Akim Marathon which brought to limelight William Amponsah, Ghana’s current record holder in Long Distance. With this scintillating achievement, many expect him to assume the office of the Sports Ministry one day.
Very soon, the NPP will go to the polls to elect their Parliamentary candidates for the 2028 general elections. For the people of Asante Akim North Constituency, there is absolutely no need for any prophet to advice delegates, before they will give power to the visionary Kwadwo Baah Agyemang to help unearth the youth who have abundant talents and huge potentials in football especially.
Admitedly, there is no way sports can be sidelined when talking about avenues to create jobs for the youth in the country. This is where some politicians have failed to utilise over the years.
Since Ghana attained Independence on 6th March, 1957 – exactly 69 years ago, sports have always propelled the nation to great heights in the international front.
Talk of the world titles that boxing heroes like D.K Poison, Azumah Nelson, Ike Quartey, Joshua Clottey, Joseph Agbeko, Isaac Gogde and the likes have won for Ghana.
The Black Stars outstanding achievements on the continent in 1963, 1965, 1978 and 1982 can also not be ingnored likewise the exploits of our junior national teams in 1991, 1993, 1995 and the famour Black Satelites victory in 2009 in Egypt.
In athletics and other sporting disciplines, Ghana has incredibly paid their dues globally. But at moment, no Ghanaian is enthused with the state of our games.
The Black Stars, which used to be the nation’s biggest hope have failed miserably in all quarters. GFA President, Kurt E S Okraku and his so called Exco and management members have mismanaged and mishandled things leaving football enthusiasts in devastating and pensive mood.
It’s time to bring on board ex footballers, administrators and politicians who are endowed with deep knowledge in the game and Hon. Kwadwo Baah Agyemang should be one of them.