Ernest Danso, Chef de Mission for Team Ghana at the 13th African Games, has announced his bid for the Third Vice President position in the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) elections scheduled for April 26.
The vote, expected to draw over 30 candidates vying for various roles, will also feature a closely watched presidential contest between former Ghana Hockey Association president Richard Akpokavie and ex-Ghana Golf Association leader Michael Aggrey.
Danso, who heads the Ghana Baseball and Softball Association, emphasized the need for cohesive leadership to address systemic challenges in the country’s sports sector. His platform prioritizes infrastructure upgrades, equitable support for underrepresented disciplines, and partnerships with corporate sponsors to bolster athlete development. “Talents exist across all sports, but without investment, we risk losing potential champions,” he stated during his campaign launch.
He called for improved coordination among federations to maximize resources, urging stakeholders to align strategies for national benefit. Danso also appealed to private entities to view sports bodies as long-term partners, stressing that sustained funding could unlock grassroots talent and revitalize community facilities.
Addressing delegates, he framed the election as a pivotal moment for the GOC’s credibility. “We need a board that acts decisively, not one hindered by inertia,” he said. “My goal is to create an environment where athletes and coaches thrive, not just survive.”
The elections come amid heightened scrutiny of Ghana’s sports governance following uneven performances at international competitions. Critics have long called for reforms to address funding disparities and aging infrastructure, particularly with the 2026 Commonwealth Games on the horizon. Danso’s unity-focused message may appeal to delegates seeking collaborative solutions, though observers note that balancing the interests of over 40 federations remains a complex challenge.
Ghana’s sports sector has historically relied heavily on government funding, leaving smaller disciplines vulnerable during budget shortfalls. A renewed push for corporate partnerships, as advocated by Danso, mirrors strategies adopted by neighboring countries like Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, where private-sector collaboration has boosted training facilities and athlete stipends. The election outcome could signal whether Ghana’s sports leadership opts for continuity or embraces structural reforms to match regional rivals.
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