The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced an ambitious strategy to overhaul Ghana’s sports sector.
It pledges a more equitable distribution of resources and a significant shift in focus from football, the traditionally dominant sport.
Historically, Ghana’s Ghana’s national sports teams, with the notable exception of the Black Stars, have struggled with insufficient support, resulting in stagnation across various disciplines.
The NDC’s plan aims to correct this disparity and foster a more balanced development of the country’s sporting landscape.
If successful in the December elections, the NDC promises to prioritize the growth and advancement of sports beyond football, ensuring that other sports receive the attention and resources necessary for their development.
The party’s proposal seeks to create a more inclusive and thriving environment for all sports in Ghana.
Key highlights of the NDC’s sports policy include:
- Financial Support for Footballers: The party plans to increase financial support for footballers at all levels, including Colts, Division One and Two, and the Ghana Premier League, by enhancing their salaries and providing additional allowances.
- Facility Refurbishment: Immediate upgrades will be made to pitches, tracks, and other facilities at national stadia in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Cape Coast, and Sekondi to meet FIFA standards.
- International Standard Stadia: The NDC intends to continue its policy of establishing state-of-the-art stadia in all regions across the country.
- Multi-purpose Sports Facilities: New multi-purpose sports facilities will be built to encourage regional sporting events and inter-school competitions, fostering talent development.
- Equitable Investment in National Teams: There will be a focus on investing equally in various national teams, including women’s football, parasports, juvenile teams, and lesser-known sports.
- Modern Sports University: The NDC plans to upgrade the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Sports College into a modern sports university, offering training in sports science, sports medicine, and sports management/administration across multiple campuses in Ghana.
- Sports Centres of Excellence: Establishment of Sports Centres of Excellence in the northern, middle, and southern zones, in collaboration with universities and the private sector, to enhance sports training and development.
- Support for National Athletes: The party will provide consistent support for national athletes to compete internationally and develop post-competition careers, including pension schemes.
- Scholarships and Sports Academies: Scholarships will be offered to promising sports talents, and sports academies will be established in partnership with the private sector.
- Support for Retired Athletes: Retired sports personalities will receive assistance in pursuing sports-related careers after their active sporting life.
These were captured in their manifesto ahead of the 2024 elections, which the party is confident its leader former President John Mahama will secure victory.
