The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon Kofi Iddi Adams believes boxing is a treasure that Ghana must cherish, protect and nurture always to replenish in abundance.

Speaking at the launch of the Trust Sports Emporium Ltd (TSEL)  / Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF) Amateur League, he emphasised the need to develop the grassroots of every sports discipline because that is the foundation the structure and if it is not built on a solid foundation, but more is added it will tumble.

The boxing enthusiast was happy to launch the amateur league and appealed to corporate Ghana to support.

He advised boxers, officials and spectators to be disciplined as some distinguished personalities would be coming to the Bukom Boxing Arena on watch the League.

President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) Nii Kojo Ashiefie Papanyira 1 who was special guest said Ghana boxing is a big brand which companies must utilise as a tool for advertising and publicity.

Known in private life as Ben Nunoo Mensah, the Development Chief of the Ga State thanked the Minister for encouraging grassroots sports development and commended the Trust Sports Emporium Ltd and Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF) for bringing back a boxing league to keep amateur boxers in condition.

He recounted the achievements of boxing at international sports competitions like the Olympic Games African Games and Commonwealth Games.

The President of the Ghana Boxing Federation, Mr. Bernard Quartey hinted that the Amateur League would be held fortnightly at the Bukom Boxing Arena and winning boxers are going to be rewarded.

He called for strengthening of the National teams. Implementing world class officiating and coaching standards. uncovering hidden talents and changing perception as well as  acknowledging partners and sponsors.

He appealed to the media to promote boxing in Ghana and thanked the Ministry of Sports and Recreation for supporting the initiative.

Madam Shirley Acquah-Harrison. Managing Director of TSEL in a speech said the current moment is pivotal in the journey of Ghana Amateur Boxing to reclaim its past glory in the world.

She expressed that amateur boxing is the foundation upon which future champions are built and their goal is to provide the necessary support and infrastructure to nurture young talents into world class athletes.

She revealed that the purpose of the League is to ignite a passion that will resonate across Ghana and propel Ghanaian athletes towards the global stage.

Madam Acquah-Harrison reminded the gathering that every Champion was once an amateur and Professor Azumah Nelson whom she and her school mates have been watching when he was fighting can testify.

"The path to greatness is paved with hard work, dedication and a community that believes in the potential of its athletes" she noted.

Hon. Nii Alfred Kotey Ashie Member of Parliament for Odododiodoo who graced event appealed to government to support the gyms with equipment and called on benevolent Ghanaians who love boxing to come on board to manage the boxers or companies awarding them employment.

He assured the organisers of his support for the programme to be successful.

Present at the launch were Mr. William Kartey Chief Director at the Ministry of Sports and Recreation. Ms. Mavis Abedu and Mr. Kingsley Obeng of SSNIT, Alhaji Dauda Fuseni First Vice President of the GBF  Mr. George Lamptey former President of the GBF and boxing writer Ekow Asmah.

By Sammy Heywood Okine    

Ghanaian welterweight boxer, aspiring world champion George Faho Mensah has fully recovered from a slight injury at training and he is coming with full vigor from the heat to the cold.

The complete boxer who now boasts of a record 9-1-0 is hoping to have opportunity to crack at the national title.

According to Mr. Samuel Darkwa Agyei of SP Management, his manager, they are ready to have a shot at the national title in the shortest possible time.

He said Mensah is now at a critical stage in his career and is challenging the African champions holding WBO Africa, IBF Africa. WBC Silver or Youth the ABC title and others.

"After conquering the continent we will focus on the world. Faho Mensah is the next big thing to happen to Ghana boxing and he is coming from the heat in Ghana to the cold in Europe and USA, he is a good boxer, good puncher and moves his body well" he noted.

Faho Mensah is rated among the best Ghanaian boxers at Boxrec and he wants to move forward.

According to Mr. Darkwa Agyei, they are working on securing some partnerships to ensure comfortable management.

"Faho is famous and fantastic to watch so we are hopeful of attracting a good promotional and sponsorship deal" he added.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Sammy Heywood Okine

Wisdom Boxing Promotions is coming up with another tantalizing package on Saturday 28 February 2025 at Hana Hanthramani Hall, Accra Sports Stadium.

The headline bout is between Theo ‘Lopez’ Allotey versus Nigeria's Lukman Akinolugbade alias ‘Upper Jesus’.

In the other co- main bout, Haruna Thunder Mohammed faces Togolese Fioklu Dogbevi. Exciting Nana Adjei Clinton is on the show.

Other exciting young boxers from Ghana and other West African countries will feature on the bill.

According to CEO Coach Dr. Ofori Asare’s daughter, Miss Sarah Lotus Asare, the first female match maker in Ghana who works as Administrative Manager at Wisdom Boxing Promotions / Club they are coming up with a memorable package which is fit for royals, She hinted that some special guests, distinguished personalities and celebrities will grace the show.

She assured of safety and security at the Sports Hall as there would be reserved seats - Table /Sofa, Exclusive VIP comfort seats, ringside seats, and a VVIP experience.

VIP Tickets are going for 200ghc per person and there are exclusive ringside seats, as well as the VIP experience.

The general admission gate fee is 50ghc per person. There would be access to general seating, a dedicated bar area, and delicious food options for sale.

To book your early tickets, please call or message 0245152765: Give your Full Name & Surname, Contact Number, Number of Tickets and Ticket Type (VIP/General Admission).

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Conquerors Sporting Club’s men’s rugby team stamped their dominance on the 2025 Greater Accra Rugby Association (GARA) seven competition securing the championship in emphatic fashion at the Legon Rugby Sports Stadium.

The tournament, organized by the newly elected leadership of GARA, showcased the finest rugby talents in the region.

In a thrilling final, Conquerors dismantled Accra Rugby Club with a commanding 20-0 victory, demonstrating superior tactical discipline and attacking prowess. Their female counterparts, Conquerors Ladies, also reigned supreme, dispatching Melike Rugby Club 22-0 to claim the women’s title.

For their efforts, the champions were awarded a trophy along with products. Accra Rugby Club, the runners-up, and third-placed Hunters Rugby Club also received products from the sponsors in recognition of their performances.

The Vice President of GARA, Hajj Abdul Samad, expressed satisfaction with the level of competition, highlighting the significant strides rugby has made in Ghana.

“This tournament is just the beginning for us as newly elected executives. We are building momentum in the region, and Ghana Rugby as a whole is progressing well. Our goal is to further develop the sport, and we have numerous initiatives lined up, including school leagues, community rugby, and grassroots development through the 'Get Into Rugby' program,” he noted.

He emphasized the importance of exposing young talents to the game, particularly in rugby-rich areas like Mamobi and Madina, where many have the potential to excel. “When they see tournaments like this, it inspires them to take up rugby. That’s why we are committed to making this an annual event and appreciate our sponsors for their invaluable support,” he added.

Looking ahead, GARA has outlined an ambitious roadmap for the season. The next sevens tournament is tentatively scheduled for April, with plans to transition into the 15s format later in the year. Additionally, a ‘Captain’s Teams Tournament’ is in the pipeline, featuring national team captains leading select squads in a showcase event. The highly anticipated President’s Cup is also on the agenda, alongside the rollout of a structured school rugby league.

Reflecting on Ghana Rugby’s progress, Samad acknowledged the influence of Herbert Mensah, the President of Rugby Africa, stating, “Under his leadership, the sport in Ghana has witnessed remarkable growth. Our responsibility now is to sustain that momentum and push rugby to even greater heights.”

Despite falling short in the final, Accra Rugby Club’s head coach, Robert Oram, remained upbeat about his team’s overall performance.

“As a coach, losing the final is disappointing, but these tournaments provide invaluable opportunities for our younger players to gain experience. That, in itself, is a big positive for us,” Oram stated.

He outlined the club’s ambitions for the rest of the year, emphasizing their determination to retain the national sevens championship and improve on their runner-up finish in the 15s competition. “We aim to go one step further in the 15s tournament this year. Additionally, we are planning a tour to Abidjan in May, following last year’s successful trip to Togo. Hosting international teams in Ghana is also part of our broader strategy,” he revealed.

Beyond competition, Oram stressed the club’s commitment to rugby development. “There’s a wealth of untapped talent in Ghana. We actively promote the sport, encouraging young athletes to consider rugby as a viable path, rather than solely focusing on football,” he added.

For Conquerors’ player Nhyira Owusu-Ansah, the victory was particularly significant given the team’s past struggles against Accra Rugby Club.

“Last year was tough for us, especially after losing to them. That defeat pushed us to work harder, and it ultimately paid off. Accra Rugby Club is a strong team that never gives up, so we had to be at our best,” he remarked.

He emphasized the need for more competitive matches to sharpen their skills. “Sometimes, our performance in major tournaments is affected by a lack of regular high-level competition. More of these events will help us refine our game and raise our standards,” Owusu-Ansah added.

Final Standings:

Conquerors Sporting Club – Champions

Accra Rugby Club – 2nd Place

Hunters Rugby Club – 3rd Place

Melike Rugby Club - 4th place

Accra Majestic - 5th place

African Warriors RFC - 6th place

Dansoman Hurricanes - 7th place

Idas Sports Rugby Club - 8th place

The 2025 GARA Rugby Sevens competition was proudly sponsored by Procus Ghana Ltd, the manufacturers of Kivo, Soft Care, and Kleesoft products. With the sport gaining momentum, Ghana Rugby’s future looks brighter than ever.

Source Richard Achore

Chief Petty Officer Class 1 Bernard Tetteh Nartey has expressed interest to become Chairman of the Greater Accra Amateur Boxing Association (GAABA).

He announced on ‘The Big Fight Night’ hosted by Yours Truly on Valentines Day that he wants to lead the region to get back its glory and make amateur boxing very regular and well organised in the capital.

Nartey who supervised Ghana Army boxers to win the 2024 edition of the Ghana Professional Boxing League sponsored by Max TV, Renault, 7 Star drink, Techno and Max Buy.

According to Nartey companies have to take advantage of sports as a tool for advertising and marketing. He hoped that other companies will come on board to support activities of the Greater Accra Boxing Association and the various clubs.

Accra is home to more than 20 boxing clubs, and most are sited at Jamestown and Bukom.

Some of the popular and active boxing clubs in Accra are Bronx, Wisdom, Attoh Quarshie, The Gym, Charles Quartey, Discipline, Bukom, Akotoku, Sonia, Seconds Out, Will Power, Jamestown,  Sea View, Fit Square, Stadium, Black Panthers, Square Deal, Fit Trip, Bridge, Chorkor Champs and Graystone.

Nartey prayed that the various boxing clubs should unite and work towards progress in partnership with MP for Odododiodoo Hon Nii Kotey Ashie and other distinguished persons who have pledged to support boxing.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The Trust Sports Emporium (TSEL), operators of the Bukom Boxing Arena and the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF) will launch the Ghana Amateur Boxing League on Friday at the Mudor Conference Hall (Trust Sports Emporium).

In an invitation letter signed by Madam Shirley Acquah - Harrison, Managing Director, she said the Ghana Amateur Boxing League is an unprecedented initiative in Ghana’s sports landscape aimed at fostering young boxing talents and providing them with a platform to showcase their talent and skills on national and international stages.

“This League which is under the theme: ‘Unleashing Boxing Stars’ is envisioned as a pivotal step towards the identification and development of the next generation of Black Bombers who will represent Ghana in global competitions, including the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland” she stated.

According to Madam Acquah- Harrison, the launch will provide the detailed overview of the League’s structure, objectives and positive impact it will have on the sport of boxing in Ghana.

By Sammy Heywood Okine    

Rising Ghanaian boxer Bernard Abbey aka Kenya faces a big test on March 15 2025 when he takes on Lasha Guruli in his home town Georgia.

The amateur hero who made it to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games to become a Bronze medalist has a rich record of 67 - 21 and will be making his professional debut.

Lasha Guruli, 28. a nationality of Georgia takes the orthodox stance.

He stands at height, 5′ 10″ / 178cm. He was born and resides in Rustavi, Georgia.

For Abbey 20, this is what he has been looking for and though it may be tough because it is his first time outside Ghana, but that is the way to go to become a world champion so he is going all out to register victory for Shiatse Promotions who have belief in him.

Hon. Emmanuel Nii Okai Laryea, CEO of Shiatse Sports Management and Promotions said the opportunity has come and they ought to utilise it.

His prayer is success for Abbey and will serve as an exposure and experience.

Augustus Dodoo the matchmaker /coach / media personality noted that Abbey can break the jinx of recent loses of Ghanaian boxers in foreign lands.

Meanwhile Abbey Kenya has intensified his training at the Discipline Boxing Gym and feels highly motivated and confident to win to  improve his pro record of 6 - 0.

By Sammy Heywood Okine    

Ghana’s Black Queens have touched in Casablanca ahead of their friendly game against Morocco on Friday, February 21.

Morocco will host Ghana in what will be the first test for Kim Lars Bjorkegren following his appointment and unveiling as the new head coach.

The team left Accra in the early hours of Saturday, February 15, to begin camping for the friendly encounter.

The head coach named his squad for the game shortly after his unveiling with just four players from the Ghana Women’s Premier League called up.

The team is expected to hold their first training session on Monday ahead of the game with subsequent sessions expected to follow.

Credit: MyJoyOnline

Pix Credit National Women Football Teams

For Conquerors’ player Nhyira Owusu-Ansah, the victory was particularly significant given the team’s past struggles against Accra Rugby Club.

“Last year was tough for us, especially after losing to them. That defeat pushed us to work harder, and it ultimately paid off. Accra Rugby Club is a strong team that never gives up, so we had to be at our best,” he remarked.

He emphasized the need for more competitive matches to sharpen their skills. “Sometimes, our performance in major tournaments is affected by a lack of regular high-level competition. More of these events will help us refine our game and raise our standards,” Owusu-Ansah added.

Final Standings:

Conquerors Sporting Club – Champions

Accra Rugby Club – 2nd Place

Hunters Rugby Club – 3rd Place

Melike Rugby Club - 4th place

Accra Majestic - 5th place

African Warriors RFC - 6th place

Dansoman Hurricanes - 7th place

Idas Sports Rugby Club - 8th place

The 2025 GARA Rugby Sevens competition was proudly sponsored by Procus Ghana Ltd, the manufacturers of Kivo, Soft Care, and Kleesoft products. With the sport gaining momentum, Ghana Rugby’s future looks brighter than ever.

Source Richard Achore

Boxing coach / referee / judge Chief Petty Officer Class 1 Bernard Tetteh Nartey of the Ghana Navy has called on the Ministry of Sports & Recreation, GOC and National Sports Authority (NSA) for serious attention on grassroots boxing.

Speaking to Yours Truly in an exclusive interview on 'The Big Fight Night" on Omashi TV, Tetteh Nartey, winner of the Boxing Ghana Amateur Referee of the Year said the success of the national teams; Black Bombers and Black Hitters (female squad) are dependent on a solid foundation of the Black Rockets and juvenile boxing.

According to the product of Adisadel College, he is glad to be involved in boxing education and making a positive impact by training the young up and coming who will become the future champions.

The former boxer who trained at the Attoh Quarshie Boxing Club and Charles Quartey Gym gave much credit to their elders, senior colleagues and champions who have maintained the status quo and hope to relay the knowledge and skills to those coming up.

As a force man who lives in the boxing community of Ga Mashie, he had to support his employers when the Ghana Boxing league started so he has always been in the corner of the Ghana Armed Forces team, the Ghana Army who won the competition last season.

"I love to learn new things and also love to share knowledge so i love what I do" he stated.

Referee Tetteh Nartey participated in the recent IBA course held at the Accra Sports Stadium and commended the facilitators, National Sports Authority, the Ghana Boxing Federation and all those who attended to build their capacity.

"The course has upgraded our boxing knowledge and made us appreciate what the IBA has been doing to promote and develop Amateur Boxing in the world" he expressed.

He hoped the international course would be frequently held in Africa to enable more participation.

He noted that Africa and Ghana has talent not only among boxers but officials like coaches, referees, time keepers and record keepers. so they need to be involved and advised the participants to share the knowledge.

He wished that the participants of the course would be spread throughout to impart on the other regions and organisations.

"Boxing is our number one sport in Ghana so we should do the right things or we will keep on struggling and other countries will bypass us. We must honour those who have done well in the past, taking the country to glorious heights, like Clement Ike Quartey who won Africa's first medal at the Olympic Games in 1960 for those coming to see and feel the need to sacrifice or die for the nation. In fact sportsmen and women need to be rewarded adequately well to inspire and motivate others" he pleaded.

By Sammy Heywood Okine