To say the current state of Ghana's Sprinting has assumed a paradigm shift is an understatement.

Indeed, the GNPC Ghana's Fastest Human initiative started ten years ago by Reks Brobby, an Olympian, is yielding its intended purpose of reviving short distance running in Ghana, and indications are that, the success story of the athletics project is directly linked to the massive support from GNPC's CEO Opoku Awhenie Danquah.

 So far, the GNPC Ghana's Fastest Human project has attracted quality athletes all over Ghana.

Refreshingly, some of them have over the years, achieved tremendously well at international meets like the Commonwealth Games and the last Olympics.

Founder of the Ghana's Fastest Human project Reks Brooby said in an interview recently that "indeed, GNPC'S impact on this project has been massive, thanks to the hardworking CEO, who has ensured that the project keeps running.

"You will attest to the fact that the benefits of their support cannot be quantified in monetary terms- placing Ghana's athletics up there and all that."

He added "Now, the sport, which hitherto was not as glamorous has peaked all over Ghana, the very reason why we initiated this project.

"If each corporate organization will adopt a sport like GNPC has done with athletics, our various disciplines will bounce back and you have no idea how it will help our youth."

This weekend at the historic city Cape Coast, the GNPC Ghana's Fastest Human event takes place for the Central, Western and Greater Accra region's in the 100 meters for Under 15, under 18 and seniors 18 and over, both male and female.

Source GFH

Ghana Football Association Executive Council member Randy Abbey has highlighted the detrimental impact of negative media coverage on the advancement of Ghanaian football.

Abbey, who is also the president of Kpando Heart of Lions, expressed concern over the media's focus on negative reporting, which he believes hampers the effective administration and development of Ghana football.

In an interview with Asempa FM, Abbey stated, "Negative reportage by the media is one problem affecting Ghana football."

He emphasised that the media's emphasis on negative stories creates challenges for the overall management and progress of the sport in the country.

Abbey further revealed that plans are underway to strengthen Kpando Heart of Lions as they prepare for their return to the Ghana Premier League.

He stated, "We'll beef up the team; we'll improve it; it's obvious." This indicates the club's commitment to enhancing their squad and ensuring competitiveness in the upcoming season.

Heart of Lions secured their promotion to the 2022/23 Ghana Premier League after emerging as champions of Zone 3 in the Division One League.

Asempa fm

Oliver König, partner of Accra Lions, has boldly declared West Africa as the unparalleled global leader in talent acquisition.

As he fervently champions the region's exceptional potential, König sheds light on West Africa's unrivaled pool of prodigious individuals.

With unwavering conviction, he insists that the region's prominence extends far beyond its rich cultural heritage, captivating the attention of the world with an abundance of exceptional skills and limitless possibilities.

König added that if the best infrastructure is provided the world will see world class players.

“West Africa has the biggest talent pool in the world. If you love football and want the best talent then West Africa is the place. The hope is that when we provide the best infrastructure, we will see World Class players,” he said at the Accra Lion's partnership event.

Ghana Football Association president Kurt Okraku, Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG) boss Tony Baffoe, Sports Minister Hon. Mustapha Ussif, and other football personalities were at the partnership event on Tuesday morning.

Football Ghana

The second edition of the prestigious Giti Classic Golf Championship is expected to tee off at the Celebrity Golf Course at Sakumono in the Greater Accra Region from Tuesday May 30th 2023 with over two hundred and fifty golfers gearing up for the golf competition.

The championship will be contested for in two categories namely the professional event and that of the hundred and fifty amateur golfers’ competition who will be honoring their competition on June 3rd on the same greens at the celebrity club. The second Giti Classic golf championship which will last for a period of five days will commence with the professional division where over one hundred golfers are expected for compete for four days and will be played under the rules of the R & A, St Andrews and the local rules of Celebrity Golf Club.

Aside some notable Ghanaian names for the professional event, organizers have hinted that the championship will see the participation from West African sub region golfers namely Nigeria, Benin, Liberia, Togo and the Ivory Coast.

The golf competition is being put together by Wonders Rising Stars Golf Academy with Giti Tyres Global Trading PTE Limited manufacturers of GT Radial tyres in Ghana as the main sponsors of the competition. Alphabetic City Home is supporting the golf championship with a special hole in one prize.

Speaking ahead of the golf tournament, the General Manager of Giti Tyres Wang Shu underscored the importance of sponsoring the golf competition as part of their social responsibility in building corporate environment for business and sports. Following a successful first edition of the competition,

Mr. Shu mentioned in an interview that his firm finds the game of golf as a vital tool in improving their relationship with many especially the business community. He therefore called on golfers both amateurs and professionals to prepare adequately well for the forth- coming second Giti classic golf championship and hope that the best will excel. 

He mentioned that some attractive prizes including cash, trophies and products from Giti Tyres and others supporting firms will be presented at the closing ceremony.

The director of Rising Stars Golf Academy, John Mawuli Nyarko stated that feverish preparations underway to ensure a successful organization of the tournament and noted that on and off the course arrangement are being planned to make things very comfortable for golfers and patrons of the game during the tournament. Mawuli Nyarko, himself a professional noted that some distinguished guests will be present at the opening and closing ceremony of the second GITI Classic Golf championship.

The guests include the chairman of Giti, Tang Hang, the General Manager of Giti Tyres, Wang Shu, some top gurus from Giti Tyres, a high power delegation from the Chinese community in Ghana.

Also expected at the golf event is the captain of the Celebrity Golf Club Theodore Asampong, Lady Captain, Catherine Fabbi, president of the Ghana Golf Association Leonard Kwaku Okyere, PGA Ghana President, Mark Cofie Jnr among other big wigs within the golfing fraternity.

By Johnny Phil Quartey

Top Ghanaian Para Athlete Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe is in the USA preparing for big international assignments coming up and he had an exclusive chat with Yours Truly describing his feelings and expectations.

According to the experienced Para Athlete and former captain of Team Ghana at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, he is leaving no stone unturned to leave a name and legacy in Para Sports in Ghana and Africa.

He noted that the African Para Games in September in Ghana will be very exciting and hopes to perform well and win before his country people.

"I have prepared well and the preparation is still going on as I want to do something big to go into the record books "he expressed.

He also wants qualification for Paris Paralympics Games 2024, which will be in Arizona Phoenix coming up from 24th to 28th of May,, 2023.

According to Nkegbe, a member of GoGetDem Club in Accra, this year will be the eighth time of taking part in the Desert Challenge.

"My participation in this year event be bring me back to a good memory of this event especially in 2019 I break Africa and National Record on the same track which has make me the current African record holder in 100m T54 category, last year I wont a silver medal in the 100m T54 category which I look forward of retaining my winning ways this year, I thank all my sponsors especially my host family Mr and Mrs John Brown in Spokane and National Sports Authority" he said.

Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe has arrived in Arizona ahead of the Truck Meet Desert Challenge from 24th to 28th looking forward to making some good performance that will secure my qualification to the World Championship this year in July 8 to 17, 2023 in Paris, France.

He has encouraged many disabled people to become active sports men and women who are going to display for Ghana at the African Para Games.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

FIFA and WHO extend Memorandum of Understanding for four more years

WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and FIFA President Gianni Infantino sign new agreement in Geneva, Switzerland

Both organisations reiterate commitment to continue working together to promote health through football

FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO) have agreed to extend their collaboration and to continue to use the power of football to promote healthy lifestyles and equal access to health services worldwide.

During the 76th World Health Assembly in Geneva , Switzerland, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and FIFA President Gianni Infantino signed a four-year extension to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which has been in place since 4 October 2019.

“Health and football are perfect teammates. Promoting healthy lifestyles, safe stadiums and the physical and mental benefits of physical activity are among the many health goals WHO is proud to keep scoring with FIFA for the next four years,” said Dr Tedros. “WHO’s partnership with FIFA has already succeeded to share evidence-based messages to help people of all ages lead healthier and safer lives through the power of football and sport. WHO looks forward to continuing this journey.”

“We are proud to have signed and renewed the memorandum of understanding with the World Health Organization - we are proud to continue our relationship to pass important physical and mental health messages through our global football audience,” Gianni Infantino said. “I extend my gratitude to Dr Tedros, to his wonderful team, to everyone that helps in the healthcare sector - from doctors to nurses to healthcare professionals and health ministers -  and to everyone who contributes to make our lives better.”

Reflecting on the past four years, he added: “Both Dr Tedros and I felt that in a world that is more and more divided, maybe if the World Health Organization and FIFA join forces, we can achieve something, we can have even just a little impact to make our lives a little bit better. Since 2019, we have worked together with our colleagues at the World Health Organization to try to use the impact of football, that helps drive health for one and all.”

During the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, FIFA and the WHO launched the Football Unites the World campaign. Supported by Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Hassan Al-Haydos, Karim Benzema, Lucy Bronze, Giulia Gwinn, Kaká, Robert Lewandowski, Carli Lloyd, Édouard Mendy and Emmanuel Petit as well as by two of the WHO’s Goodwill Ambassadors for Sport and Health, namely Alisson Becker and Didier Drogba, it illustrated football’s unrivalled ability to bring people together.

The support of the Qatar Ministry of Public Health, FIFA and the WHO collaborated on a number of initiatives to promote the importance of access to physical and mental health for all . Health and well-being were prioritized through the staging of the tournament, and included several initiatives such as:

• The implementation of mass gathering and surveillance strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases
• Enhanced policies to protect people from the harms of tobacco, including making stadium seating areas smoke-free
• Healthy food options at all 64 matches with healthy and vegetarian food reaching a 30% quota across all FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums, thus showing that healthy, sustainable and high-quality food environments are possible at major sport events

Since 2020, the two organisations have joined forces on various digital campaigns and initiatives to address a range of health-related issues. These, include ( #ReachOut) , domestic violence ( #SafeHome ), an appreciation of the work of health professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic ( #HumanitysHeroes ), equitable access to vaccinations and vaccines, diagnostics, oxygen and other life-saving tools ( #ACTogether ) and “ Pass the message to kick out coronavirus campaign ”, where FIFA Legends called on people around the world to take five steps to stop the spread of the disease. Several of these initiatives have also received active support from other institutions such as the African Union, Association of Southeast Asian Nations ( ASEAN ) and the European Commission to help spread the message to a global audience.

For three years, the two organisations have also championed the need to # BeActive to promote regular physical activity. The WHO recommends that healthy adults do a minimum of 30 minutes physical activity per day, while children should do a minimum of 60 minutes daily. However, current WHO data has reported that 80% of adolescents are not getting enough daily exercise.

FIFA

Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kurt Oktraku has commended Accra Lions for achieving a significant milestone following the announcement of German football legend Lothar Matthaus as part of the ownership group of the club.

The 1991 FIFA Player of the Year joined forces with Ghanaian player Frank Acheampong and renowned football agent Oliver Konig to acquire a stake at the Accra-based side.

Speaking at the event, Kurt Okraku praised the club indicating that the presence of winners at the helm of affairs will reflect in the performances of the team and eventually breed success.

“We can see a vision unfolding. The partners Oliver König and Lothar Matthäus are winners so the club will become winners. Essentially, Ghana football will become a winner.”

“Accra Lions have an identity. They play the kind of football I want to watch. They have the right level of investment at every aspect of the club.”

“The good environment we have created in Ghana football has enabled and encouraged people to invest in Ghana football.”

Accra Lions after being founded in 2015, rose through the ranks and acquired top-flight status in 2021. They are currently enjoying their second season in the Ghana Premier League and hope to stay longer and go ahead to achieve more.

ghanasoccernet

   German football legend Lothar Matthaus has shed light on his decision to acquire a stake in the Ghanaian top-flight club Accra Lions, expressing his desire to give back to the community and contribute to the development of Ghanaian football.

Alongside Ghanaian football star Frank Acheampong and renowned football agent Oliver Konig, Matthaus now forms part of the club's ownership group, with the acquisition reportedly valued at around €2 million.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held at the Kempinski Hotel, Matthaus, former FIFA World Player of the Year and World Cup winner, shared his motivation behind the move.

"I like to spend all my time in football. I want to give back to the community," he explained. Recognizing his wealth of experience, the former FIFA World Player of the Year and World Cup winner expressed his willingness to support and guide the team. "We know football a bit longer than you, so you can always come to me or anyone else in the team," he added.

Impressed by the professionalism and talent displayed by the Accra Lions players during training, Matthaus expressed his belief in the club's potential for success.

He commended the team for their recent remarkable victory over title contenders Aduana Stars, where Accra Lions secured an impressive 3-0 win. "Beating Aduana Stars after a rough patch in form is the kind of mentality I like. That's why I'm here," Matthaus said.

Accra Lions, now under the ownership of Matthaus, Acheampong, and Konig, aspire to tap into Ghana's football potential and become a driving force in player development. With Matthaus's invaluable experience and the combined expertise of the ownership group, Accra Lions are poised to make waves both domestically and on the international stage.

Accra Lions are currently enjoying their second season in the Ghana Premier League, and have playing some of the best football in the league. With three games to go, they are set for a mid-table finish.

GhanaSoccerNet

German legend Lothar Matthaus acquires stake in Ghanaian club Accra Lions     

Former Germany international and FIFA World Player of the Year, Lothar Matthaus, has made a significant move in the football world by acquiring a stake in the Ghana Premier League club, Accra Lions.

The ownership group now consists of Matthaus, Ghanaian football star Frank Acheampong, and renowned football agent Oliver Konig. This purchase comes with a reported valuation of around €2 million.

Matthaus, a distinguished figure in German football as the ex-captain and 1990 World Cup winner, expressed his excitement about this new venture. "Of course, it's a business model," the 62-year-old stated. "Ghana has always had a huge potential of talent, you can see that in the national team"

Highlighting their future plans, Matthaus outlined their focus on nurturing young players and facilitating their transition to Europe. "We want to bring young players to Europe. On a serious path and already well-trained. That's why investments are also made here in the training area," he explained.

The investment will particularly emphasise bolstering the training infrastructure to ensure the players receive excellent preparation.

Accra Lions, now under the ownership of Matthaus, Acheampong, and Konig, aspire to tap into Ghana's football potential and become a driving force in player development. With Matthaus's invaluable experience and the combined expertise of the ownership group, Accra Lions are poised to make waves both domestically and on the international stage.

Football enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding of this new chapter for Accra Lions, as they strive to provide young Ghanaian talents with opportunities to shine on the global football stage.

Accra Lions are currently enjoying their second season in the Ghana Premier League, and have playing some of the best football in the league. With three games to go, they are set for a mid-table finish.

ghanasoccernet     

The Special Short Code for registration to participate in the 2023 edition of the annual Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon has been launched on Tuesday at the Zimansky Hotel, a newly built plush luxury hotel at Roman Ridge in Accra with a gym and tennis / basketball court at the top floor.

Hon. Kwadwo Baah Agyeman, a former MP of Asante Akim North Constituency in the Ashanti Region and CEO of the Ghana Digital Center performed the launch. He commended Medievents for their creativity in using digitalization for registration and establishing themselves as the leading Marathon organisers and sports with endurance in Ghana. He observed that the digital registration will enable the organisers to have a data base of participates and share information ahead of the event.

Mr. Henry Kwao of TXT Ghana said the short code *380*21# is to afford athletes and participants a convenient and efficient platform to register as well as receive instant feedback after registration. He called on Ghanaians to use the digital space for development and progress.

Mr. Willie Ezah, the Race Director said for this year’s innovation, participants would register through a special short code *380*21# which was developed by TXT Ghana, one of the partners of the event.

The user-friendly short code also gives opportunity to participants to select their race, either21km, 10km or 5km and make appropriate payment after registration.

Over 1000 participants are expected to compete and there would be other races such as wheelchair, deaf race and skating as well as entertainment after the Races.

He revealed that registered participants will contribute to the race, get a running vest, 1000ghc insurance package from Serene Insurance plus a refreshment pack, aside the fantastic winner’s prize.

Eugenia Agyiri Tettey, representative of Serene Insurance said everyone’s health is his or her wealth, so people should take good care of themselves by taking part in sporting activities, and socializing.

She hoped for an accident free programme, however, if anyone just injured at treated at the Ridge Hospital, Serene Insurance will pay all the bills.

Naadu Mills, Assistant Director 1 of Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) reiterated the full support of her outfit.

Dr. Ndombia - Mibillah, Compliance Manager of GS4, leading security providers promised to deploy men and full assistance on the day of the event.

The Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon is fixed for Saturday, July 29, 2023, from the Accra Sports Stadium to Mantse Agbona, James Town.

Sponsors of the Race include Serene Insurance Ghana Limited, HD Plus, Allied Consortiums, Parin Africa, mybet.Africa.com, Aqua Blue Mineral Water, RekFoli Herbals, G4S and Zimansky Hotel.

Global Media Alliance, www.sportsnetghana.con, the Inquisitor are the media partners.

The Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon is part of activities making the annual Homowo festival and the 125th Anniversary of the AMA.

The main launch of the Marathon comes off at the AMA Hall a week to the Race.

By Sammy Heywood Okine