The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has inaugurated a nine-member Ministerial Advisory Board, signalling a renewed push to use sports as a major driver of national development. The ceremony, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room, was led by Sports Minister Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, who outlined a bold vision for strengthening Ghana’s sports ecosystem.
A proactive board for a modern sports agenda
Hon. Adams stressed that the newly constituted board will not function as a ceremonial body but as an active partner in shaping policy, strategy and implementation.
“This board is not just a consultative body; it is expected to be proactive and contribute meaningfully to our development goals,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing structural reforms aimed at realigning systems to meet the demands of Ghana’s evolving sports sector. The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prudent expenditure, ensuring efficiency while maximising sports’ contribution to national growth.
Sports as a tool for broader national development
Hon. Adams emphasised that the Ministry’s role extends far beyond competitions and infrastructure. He noted the government’s intention to leverage sports to:
- Improve sanitation
- Help combat illegal mining (galamsey)
- Promote good governance
- Drive economic empowerment and youth development
The Minister revealed that Cabinet has directed the Ministry to finalise the Sports Development Fund, which will soon be laid before Parliament. Once passed, it will provide the liquidity needed to execute priority projects and strengthen long-term planning.
Composition of the advisory board
The board features a diverse blend of expertise from government, private industry, education, law, security and sports. Members include:
- Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams (MP) — Minister & Chairman
- Mrs. Wilhelmina Asamoah — Chief Director, Ministry of Sports & Recreation
- Amb. Alexander Grant Ntrakwa — Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Mr. Stephen Kwaku Owusu — Ministry of Education
- Ms. Amerley Nuno-Amarteifio — Ministry of Finance
- Mr. Cleanse Tsonam Akpeloo — CEO, Suku Technologies
- COP Lydia Yaako Donkor — Private Sector Representative
- Mr. Abedi Ayew Pele — Former Black Stars Captain, Private Sector
- Mr. Michael Esuon — Director, F&A (Secretary)
The inclusion of football icon Abedi Pele signals the Ministry’s intent to draw from the experience of those who have excelled in sport at the highest level.
Minister commits to collaboration and impact
Hon. Adams praised the Ministry’s staff and leadership for their ongoing efforts and assured board members that their recommendations will be taken seriously.
He also addressed Ghana’s preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, emphasising that the nation’s objective goes beyond participation:
Ghana aims to extract real developmental value from the tournament through strategic planning and sustainable implementation.
The Minister concluded by pledging full support to the board, promising that all constructive proposals aimed at enhancing operations, staff welfare and public service delivery will be prioritised.
The inauguration marks a significant milestone as Ghana positions sports as a catalyst for national transformation.
