General Secretary of the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) Mr. Patrick Johnson has explained that the Normalization Committee to lead in the reforms of Ghana Boxing will not work beyond 2026.

Speaking to Yours Truly in an exclusive interview, he said the Normalization Committee is supposed to work hand in hand with the Ghana Boxing Authority to bring on board the recommendations of the Ministerial Committee to lead the sport to improve at all levels, from juvenile, female boxing amateur and professional.

“The whole eco system of Ghana Boxing is going to be affected for the better so that all stakeholders will enjoy” he said.

According to the General Secretary the Normalization Committee will introduce a 5 year development plan whereby investment would be applied into the sport and the nation is going to attract deals to welcome international boxing deals to stage world title bouts and other engagements to boast business and sports tourism.

He urged the boxing stakeholders to support the Normalization Committee to do their work in time to hand over to a new President and Board.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Telecom giants, MTN Ghana on Thursday announced a landmark $2milion sponsorship package at MTN House, their head office at Ridge in Accra to become the headline sponsor of four national teams of Ghana, namely the Black Stars, Black Queens, Black Satellites and Black Starlets, as well as the Under 19 Elite Championship.

Mr. Stephen Blewitt, the CEO of MTN Ghana said the deal as a commitment to deepening the relationship between the company, the GFA, and the nation’s football fraternity.

“This sponsorship deepens the bond between the people of Ghana, the GFA, the ministry, and the sports community. It’s about national pride, youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and building a sustainable future for football in our country” he said.

“By embracing all the national teams; male and female, junior and senior we affirm that every Ghanaian player deserves the chance to shine. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, we believe Ghana can go all the way” he added.

He expressed that it is about national pride, youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and building a sustainable future for football in this country.

“We believe that every Ghanaian player deserves the opportunity to shine, and we’re committed to giving our national teams the resources, preparation, and exposure they need to succeed.”

Mr. Blewett also emphasized MTN Ghana’s dream of seeing Ghana win the World Cup. “With unity, preparation, and the belief of 33 million Ghanaians, we can change the narrative,” he added.

Mr. Edwin Simone Kurt Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association welcomed the partnership, saying it a “timely boost” for the teams ahead of major competitions.

He praised MTN Ghana for their continued support of Ghanaian football. “Since the 2010-2011 football season, MTN has stuck with the FA, believed in the FA leadership, and believed in the vision of offering opportunities to the youth of our country”.

Mr. Okraku emphasized the significance of the partnership, noting that it’s not just about the Black Stars, but also about the Black Queens, Black Satellites, and Black Starlets. “MTN Ghana is committed to investing in our today and our collective future,” he added.

Madam Wilhemina Asamoah, Chief Director of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation commended MTN Ghana for their support of football and encouraged other corporate bodies to follow suit.

“Ghana is undergoing comprehensive reforms to position the country as a hub for continental trade, business, tourism, and education,” she said. “The Ministry of Sport and Recreation is pursuing initiatives to promote corporate partnerships with sport, and we urge all stakeholders to work together to develop our sports industry” she noted.

The deal which runs from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2027 is expected to provide crucial financial and logistical support as Ghana’s national teams prepare for upcoming qualifiers and tournaments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Present were Exco members of the GFA, retired Black Stars players, captains of the Black Satellites and Black Queens, coaches, senior managers of MTN Ghana, the Ghana National Supporters Union and the media.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The 2025 edition of the Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Peace Cup promises excitement and entertainment as coaches of the competing clubs have met to media to assure fans what they should expect on Sunday  August 17 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The final presser took place at the Gbese Mantse Palace in Accra where the head coaches and captains of Accra Hearts of Oak and Kpando Heart of Lions revealed to the media their preparations and plans ahead of the Cup Match.

Coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani said it is a very important match, which they need to win for the fans after missing the President's Cup.

He expressed that players are training hard and he expects an entertaining game.

"We are building a team with players who have the winning mentality. We are in and ready to challenge for every event" he said.

Bashiru Hayford of Heart of Lions noted that last year they came, saw and played but did not conquer. "We are here again and this time will be different because we started preparing long time ago and the boys want to win. It's a very important match for us, we have other matches with Hearts and we are glad to play with them, we are here to grace the occasion and honour the Gbese Mantse to promote peace and unity.  We are coming to make history. I have tasted this soup before and I know how it feels like, we are working underground and we will shock Hearts of Oak, only two of our players have left" he indicated

Hearts of Oak Captain Ben Asare thank all present and the opportunity to play again.

He assured fans of the players’ readiness to face Heart of Lions and win since they are the older club.

Bismark Anim, Captain of Heart of Lions said its a good test for both teams, but they have trained hard and well prepared to win.

According to Sammy Amin Addo, the chief organiser, Volta Region chiefs and people are interested and coming to Accrra to give full support as they will be represented by the Regional Minister and MCE.

He confirmed curtain raisers between Accra West versus Accra North colts players and Legends versus the British High Commission.

He also assured of good entertainment and cultural activities as the Black Star Experience office and Ghana Tourism Authority are backing the event.

He stated that the match will be used to honour the eight deceased gallant heroes who crashed in an helicopter accident and 16 children who died in a road accident.

The gate fees are Ga Mashie special at 5ghc, 10ghc, 20ghc, 100ghc and 200ghc for VIP.

Tinny, Jupiter and Yaa Pono will entertain fans with their music.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), has restated the Authority’s commitment to extend sustained support to Ghana’s national armwrestling team, Golden Arms following recent achievements.

The team once again showed their dominance on the continent after securing 55 medals at the just-ended Africa Armwrestling Championship in Abuja.

Ghana's successes, backed by corporate support, saw the delegation of Ghana Armwrestling Federation pay a courtesy call on the NHIA Executive Management in Accra to convey their gratitude for the Authority’s support ahead of the continental championship.

Addressing the delegation, Dr. Bampoe praised the team’s accomplishments, calling them a source of national pride after an impressive medal haul. He reflected on the 2023 Africa Games, where the team’s outstanding performance eclipsed the rest of Africa and drew nationwide admiration.

The Chief Executive Officer noted that, in line with its support for corporate Ghana, the NHIA is committed to investing in armwrestling to advance the GAF’s mission of making armwrestling a leading sport in the country.

“Everybody loves a winning team. We are proud to be associated with your success. So long as you continue to deliver, we will continue to support,” he said.

Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, stated that the NHIA’s support greatly lifted the team’s morale during the championship, helping them secure 26 gold, 20 silver, and 9 bronze medals.

This latest feat brings the team’s overall tally to 405 medals, with approximately 67 per cent of the medals being gold.

The team announced their upcoming participation in the World Armwrestling Championship in Bulgaria from September 10 to 22, 2025, and also revealed that Ghana will host the 2027 African Armwrestling Championship.

Dr. Senanu Djokoto, NHIA’s Deputy Chief Executive for Operations, lauded the team’s leadership and performance, reaffirming the Authority’s readiness to deepen the partnership.

Present at the meeting was Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, Vice President, Ghana Armwrestling Federation, Mr. Husseini Akueteh Addy and Nii Otoo Larkyne.

As a gesture of appreciation, the team presented their medals to the NHIA Executive Management and gifted them an official team jersey.

Source : www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) on Monday laid wreath at the Jubilee House to honor the memory of the compatriots who tragically lost their lives in an incident at Adansi in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The wreaths, representing the GOC, the Commonwealth Games Association of Ghana, and the entire sporting fraternity.

The GOC President, Mr. Richard Akpokavie remarked that "The Ghana Olympic Committee, representing all national federations, athletes, coaches, and officials in sports, and has come to pay tribute to these gallant men who died in the service of our country."

He revealed that the late Omane Boamah was scheduled as a baton bearer for the King's Baton Relay which has been put on hold.

He added, "We remember them for their service to the nation, and it's fitting that we come here to pay our respects. As sports people, we believe in sacrifice for our country, and we're committed to instilling this value in our athletes, officials, and coaches. May God remember them for their service and rest their souls in peace."

The ceremony was attended by top officials of the GOC, including President Richard Akpokavie, 1st Vice President Mawuko Afadzinu, 2nd Vice President Frederick Otu Lartey, Secretary General Muniru Kassim Mohammed, Deputy Secretary General Bawah Fuseini, and board members Rafatu Inusah, Delphina Quaye, George Lamptey, George Tettey Lamptey, Kamal Sulley, Richmond Quarcoo, and Nathaniel Johnson.

Other notable attendees included Professor Francis Dodoo, Former GOC President; Charles Osei Asibey, Communications Director, GOC; and Christopher Essilfie, President for Modern Pentathlon.

Source GOC Communications

The Ghana Immigration Service and Ghana Prisons Service in separate ceremonies have welcomed officers of both security institutions who recently returned from a triumphant tour of the African Armwrestling Championship in Abuja, Nigeria, as African Champions dominating in their various categories.

The Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Patience Baffoe Bonnie, and the leadership Prisons Service, were present to congratulate the champions Daniel Acquah (4 Gold Medals), Mabel Yeboah (4 Gold Medals) and Henry Otoo (2 Silver, 2 Bronze) on their impressive performances. The champions presented their medals to the Director-General, and they shared their experiences and insights with the top officials.

During the meeting, the Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Baffoe Bonnie, expressed her excitement about the potential benefits of sports for inmates.

She noted that sports can play a significant role in rehabilitation and pledged to support the development of armwrestling within the prisons service.

In a related development, the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service,

CGI Samuel Basintale who was fascinated by the performances of Edward Yamoah Asamoah (2 Gold Medals), Blessed Abeka Nunoo (1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze), Godwin Sackey (1 Gold, 1 Silver) and referee Nii Otoo Larkyne, also echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of sports in promoting physical fitness and teamwork among personnel. Mr. Basintale promised to provide support for the development of armwrestling within the service, including training facilities, equipment, and sponsorship.

The African Armwrestling Champions from the security services who won a total of 20 medals out of Ghana’s 55 medal haul, were thrilled by the support and enthusiasm shown by the Ghana Immigration Service and Ghana Prisons Service. They expressed their gratitude and promised to continue promoting the sport and inspiring others to take up armwrestling.

Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President for Ghana Armwrestling Federation was thrilled by the promise and continuous collaborations and support for the development of armwrestling in Ghana by the security services. “We’re motivated and inspired, knowing that we have the backing of these two major security agencies in the country.

Source : www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

Ghana’s sole representative at the WBC Grand Prix quarter finals is Alternate Middle weight boxer Shakul Samed. He is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with with his trainer, Elvis Robertson for the Riyadh Season WBC Boxing Grand Prix Quarterfinals on August 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. AST (12pm GTM).

The ‘Dobia’ as Shakul is known is back after a successful protest of the controversial referee stoppage in the first phase,

Shakul "The Sharp Shooter" Samed is back to the phase 2 of the WBC Grand Prix for the final eliminator against Australia's Jude Grant for alternate boxer for Phase 3, the Semi Final and then to the ultimate final.

Before departing, Coach Elvis was optimistic of winning to get his ward in the top ranks of the Boxing Ghana Best 10 Pound for Pound.

He said those on top are fake as he is coming with the real champ.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The Greater Accra and Eastern Regions are selecting representatives for the National Functional Fitness Event scheduled for December.

Last August 9 saw the selection process in motion as eight females and six males including technical officials and coaches were taken through drills at the Idrowhyt Events Centre in Accra in preparations for the up upcoming finals later in the year.

The drills which included running jumping jacks, press ups, push ups, mountain climbing, lunges and other exercises were led by Charles Owusu Ansah, President of Functional Sports League Ghana (FSLG).

He urged the trainees to maintain discipline, determination, desire and work hard to build their confidence. strength, stamina and speed to gain selection into the final. He said the selection will continue until the right candidates are selected.

Some of the participants who enjoyed the exciting fitness programme said their aim is to have a feel of sports and represented Ghana at the international level.

The winners will get the opportunity to participate in at an international championship in Egypt.

Functional Fitness is a type of exercise that focuses on training your body for the movements you perform in everyday life. It emphasizes using multiple muscle groups together to improve your ability to perform daily tasks like lifting, squatting, pushing, pulling, and twisting. This approach contrasts with traditional weight training that may isolate specific muscles.

By Sammy Heywood Okine                                   

The Ghana Boxing fraternity, Friends of Boxing (FOB) are very much touched, griefed and saddened as we join the President of the Republic of Ghana, HE John Dramani Mahama and the people to mourn the tragic death of eight gallant distinguished Ghanaians; two ministers and six others including three military officers involved in the military helicopter crash in Sikaman Forest, Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region.

The entire Ghana Boxing fraternity and Friends of Boxing are shocked and surprised, however we take consolation that the good Almighty Creator is the one who knows best and he alone gives, so he alone takes what belongs to him.

The boxing fraternity is saddened and wish to send our condolences to the people of Ghana especially the National Democratic Congress, the Cabinet, Parliament and relatives and families of the departed souls.

We believe that this is a moment of coming together in unity and love, shunning all political differences and showing affection.

No one knows how he or she is going to die, but going out to fight galamsey in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, which is destroying our national resources; water, farm lands and entire environment is so sad.

Dr Edward Omane Boamah - Minister for Defence who was a former deputy Minister of Youth & Sports, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed - Minister for Environment, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed - Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator,  ⁠Dr Samuel Sarpong - Vice Chairman, NDC, Mr Samuel Aboagye - Former Parliamentary candidate, Squadron leader Peter, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo were on a national duty and mission to save humanity,  but they met their untimely death on Wednesday August 6, 2025.

As concerned citizens and patriots, we are so much touched, and even lost of words to describe the whole scenario because losing eight strong fine gentlemen who were on a good course is so sad.

Indeed we are very very sad. The Good Lord Almighty knows best, so we just pray and console the families.

May the Holy Spirit comfort us, may Your Perfect Peace be with us.

By Sammy Heywood Okine, Founder, Friends of Boxing, President, Ghana Boxing Writers Association and member, Ghana Boxing Authority Communications Committee, Former Communications Director, Ghana Olympic Committee, Associate Editor, BoxingGhana.com, Editor Ultimatesportsghana, Ghana Country Director African Sports Media Network.