The fans call him 'Kenya' but his real name is Bernard Abbey. He is regarded as one of the brave and courageous guys in the community of Ga Mashie / Bukom so he had to channel his bravery into a productive venture so he has taken the path of boxing like most youth in his neighbourhood of Gbese and James Town.

The 20 year old 'Kenya' who is building a classic career won his sixth fight at the Bukom Boxing Arena last Saturday a day after he was signed to join the stable of Shiatse Sports Management and Promotions.

According to Abbey Kenya as he is affectionately the world is his dream and target, so he will try his best to be disciplined as his gym is known, respect everyone and be humble to hit to the top.

He promised to win titles for Shiatse and Ghana so the world should watch out.

His record is now 6-0 (5KOs) and he wants to meet the contenders in his weight class.

"My next three or four fights should get me the national title and from there Africa to the world" he expressed.

Abbey thanked Hon Emmanuel Nii Okai Laryea, CEO of Shiatse Promotions, Augustus Dodoo, director /match maker/technical consultant the entire management of Discipline Boxing Club.

"I am grateful to Hon Nii Okai Laryea for this day and I promise to be disciplined and do what is necessary as ever to realise my dream" he addressed on valentine’s day after signing a lucrative contract in the presence of managers, coaches, relatives, fans and media.

By Sammy Heywood Okine                                                

Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams emphasises the need for a nationwide commitment to sports development, stating that the government must take all necessary steps to support its growth.

Speaking after a meeting with Asante Kotoko’s Interim Management Committee (IMC) and the club’s supporters union on Friday, February 14, Adams acknowledged the passion Ghanaians have for sports and the need for meaningful progress.

“It’s been a fruitful journey. A lot has been learnt from the engagement with Asante Kotoko IMC and the supporters’ union from the issues they raised. It tells you that they still love their sport, and all they yearn for is for it to grow. Anything and everything that must be done by the government to help the growth of our sports must be done,” he told the media.

The minister also stressed the need for a broader restructuring of Ghana’s sports sector, calling for a fundamental shift in approach.

“We have reached a point where all of us, including the GFA, must come to the realization that there is a need for a reset in everything, which includes our sports and our football. That is what I gathered from my engagement with Asante Kotoko IMC and the supporters,” Adams added.

His comments come at a time when discussions on improving Ghana’s football and sports landscape have intensified, with various stakeholders calling for policy changes to strengthen the sector.

Source Ghanasoccernet

Hon. Nii Okai Laryea CEO of Shiatse Sports Management and Promotions has disclosed that his outfit will return to the Bukom Boxing Arena with another classic entertainment and sports presentation in April.

He said due to the General Elections which he was actively involved to ensure victory for President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC and other engagements they have been busy, however now that things have settled on the political front he will give attention to sports and he commended people in Ga Mashie who have held the fort to make residents love and cherish boxing.

"The people of Ashiedu Keteke also called Odododiodoo or Ga Mashie love boxing and if that is what makes them happy we have to support them" he expressed.

According to Hon. Okai Laryea the April event will feature newly signed Bernard Abbey aka Kenya against a formidable opponent.

He promised that the entertainment aspect will be super and urged boxing fans to start saving towards the next Shiatse Promotions bill.

He advised boxing fans to comport themselves to attract financial investment and cautioned the GBA hierarchy on interference in bout verdicts.

Meanwhile Augustus Dodoo aka Onelife who is director of boxing at Shiatse has promised a mouthwatering package on April 19.

He hinted that some classic and amazing young boxers like Mustapha Kamoko and Aziz Quartey, Seidu Yussif versus Bernard Abbey are going to feature and will be live on television and social media.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Ghana striker Jerry Afriyie joins the Spanish lower-tier side on loan from Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah FC. Afriyie, who made his Black Stars debut in November 2024, will wear the number 19 jersey at CD Lugo.

The 18-year-old forward has been touted as one of Ghana's best upcoming talents.

From Sammy Heywood Okine

It was an amorous, blissful and joyful day on Friday February 14, 2025 in Accra Central when Shiatse Management and Promotions decided to sign on brave boxer Bernard Abbey aka ‘Kenya’ on a three year contract.

Hon. Nii Okai Laryea, CEO of Shiatse Promotions said they monitored Abbey for some time to be sure of his fitness, conduct and attitude before presenting to him the lucrative package that include presentation of kits, an undisclosed signing on fee, opportunity to train in South Africa or Dubai and chance to fight for major titles.

He hinted that Shiatse is coming back in April with another delicious pack of boxing.

Abbey who was joined by his parents, coaches and Laud Amihere, a director of Discipline Boxing Gym as well as some fans to witness the ceremony said he will remain focused, determined and let his dream come true. He promised to abide by the terms of the contract; all advises and cautions to make his managers and fans happy.

Bernard 'Kenya' Abbey (5-0, 4 KOs) who is considered to be one of the brave boys in Bukom noted that he is ready for all contenders in his weight class.

Augustus Dodoo, a director of Shiatse Promotions expressed that it is not easy to invest in boxing and hoped that Abbey will live up to expectations and go on to win titles.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

In recent times, the call for a restructuring of various sectors in Ghana has gained momentum, particularly in the realm of sports management. As the President envisions resetting sectors to foster economic growth and national development, it is imperative that the National Sports Authority (NSA) be led by a technical person rather than a political appointee. A technical expert, particularly one with a strong background in sports management, would ensure the growth and sustainability of sports in Ghana. This approach aligns with global trends where successful sports organizations are driven by individuals with the relevant technical expertise rather than political connections.

A technical expert at the helm of the NSA would bring a deep understanding of the sports landscape, both locally and globally. Many of the challenges faced by the sports sector in Ghana, such as poor infrastructure, inadequate funding, and underperformance in international competitions, can be attributed to a lack of specialized leadership (Adu-Gyamfi, 2020). A leader with a technical background would be better equipped to address these challenges with the strategic insight required. Such a leader would not only focus on developing sports talent but would also be able to create sustainable policies for long-term growth (Osei-Tutu & Quartey, 2018).

Additionally, the appointment of a technical person would bring credibility to the NSA, boosting confidence among stakeholders including athletes, coaches, and sponsors. A leader with hands-on experience in sports management would be able to build the right partnerships, secure international sponsorship deals, and attract world-class talent to Ghana. According to the Global Sports Impact report, countries with professionally led sports authorities tend to excel in international competitions and develop their sports infrastructure more effectively (World Sports Foundation, 2019). A technical person in charge would also be more adept at aligning the NSA’s goals with the President’s vision of national resetting by streamlining sports development into the broader economic plan.

Furthermore, a technical leader would understand the importance of data-driven decision-making in sports development. With sports science and analytics becoming central to improving performance, a Director General with the appropriate technical expertise would be able to incorporate data into training regimens, athlete management, and infrastructure planning. This approach would help Ghana keep pace with international trends in sports management and elevate the country’s profile in global competitions.

In conclusion, the time has come for Ghana to embrace a forward-thinking approach in sports management by appointing a technical person to lead the National Sports Authority. As the President pushes for the resetting of sectors to spur development, sports should not be left behind. Appointing a leader with the right technical expertise will not only address existing challenges but also help transform Ghana into a sports powerhouse on the global stage. It is in this light that we propose Prof Emmanuel Osei Sarpong a seasoned sport professional and astute manager to lead the Authority. We believe his worth of experience both in academia and industry makes him the ideal candidate.

References

Adu-Gyamfi, E. (2020). Challenges in sports management and governance in Ghana: The need for reform. Journal of African Sports Management, 7(3), 112-130.

Osei-Tutu, M., & Quartey, S. (2018). Sporting success: The role of leadership and governance in Ghana’s sports sector. International Journal of Sports Administration, 14(2), 45-58.

World Sports Foundation. (2019). Global sports impact: A report on the role of sports leadership in national development. World Sports Foundation Publications.

Source: Mustapha Mohammed, President of Ghana Footvolley / Nima Beach Soccer Club

President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) Mr. Ben Nunoo Mensah has revealed that Jamaican Olympian Asafa Powell has pledged to help secure tartan tracks for the Olympi Africa project at Amasaman.

“This project is a testament to our commitment to developing sports infrastructure in Ghana. We are working tirelessly to ensure athletes have access to world-class facilities,” Mr. Nunoo Mensah aka Nii Kojo Ashiefie Papanyira 1 expressed.

Asafa Powell is married to a Ghanaian, Alyshia who happens to be a niece of the GOC President and the family is prepared to support Ghana Sports.

The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) is making significant strides in developing sports infrastructure through the OlympiAfrica Project at Amasaman.

As of January 2025, the first phase of the project has been completed, featuring a basketball / volleyball court, a tennis court, and a standard football field with running tracks, per GOC President, Ben Nunoo Mensah.

The project, funded by a $100,000 grant from the OlympiAfrica Foundation, aims to create a hub for athlete development and community engagement.

Architectural designs, site preparation, and court constructions have been successfully executed, with $79,161 spent so far.

According to GOC President Ben Nunoo Mensah, preparations for the second phase, which includes a multipurpose sports hall, are in advanced stages, pending a building permit from the Ga North Municipal Assembly.

The project is mainly to be used by the Amasaman community, as stated by the OlympiAfrica Director Alassane Diack and it is for kids between ages 5 years to 15 years.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Glorious Accra Hearts of Oak who are on record to win most FA Cup trophies will face lower tie club Golden Kick in the round of 16 stage match of the MTN FA Cup competition.

In the draw held on Tuesday at the headquarters of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kumasi Asante Kotoko, the ‘Porcupine Warriors’ will host Sekondi Eleven Wise aka ‘Western Showboys’.

Berekum Chelsea will clash with Northern City as Karela lock horns with Young Apostles.

Techiman Liberty Youth plays Bechem United while True Democracy faces Abedi Pele’s Nania FC.

Tarkwa based Medeama faces Pac Academy, while Attram De Visser hosts Gold Stars.

MTN, the communication giants who are the sponsors of the FA Cup tournament always have special and fantastic packages for the clubs, players, officials and fans.

As the competition gets tougher, the prizes and packages become more attractive and precious.

With top clubs Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko still in the competition make it attract more fans and spectators.

We wish all the clubs the best of good football and adequate security. The matches are supposed to be honoured between February 21 to 24, 2025, before the quarter finals between March 28 to 31 and the semifinals between May 9 to 12 and the final between June 14/15. 2025.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The first edition of the Olympic Esports Games, a landmark event both in the world of esports and within the Olympic Movement, will be held in 2027 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Road to the Games with the first Olympic competitions will already start this year, it was announced today.

The IOC made history in July last year, when the 142nd IOC Session decided to create the Olympic Esports Games. For the organisation of these, the IOC is partnering with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC).

As part of this cooperation, the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) will become the Founding Partner of the Olympic Esports Games. The IOC-EWCF partnership aims to create a lasting impact, bridging the gap between esports and traditional sports while expanding opportunities for players and teams representing their countries.

As the Founding Partner of the Olympic Esports Games, the EWCF brings its expertise in game selection, tournament structures and ecosystem engagement to drive innovation in the development of the Olympic Esports Games. The IOC and EWCF will collaborate closely with key stakeholders to establish qualification pathways, enhance competitive integrity, and align the national esports ecosystems with broader global standards.

The EWCF is a non-profit organisation committed to fostering the growth and development of esports and gaming worldwide. As the driving force behind the Esports World Cup, the EWCF works to elevate the industry by shaping competitive structures, strengthening the esports ecosystem, and ensuring the integrity, sustainability and growth of esports.

The cooperation between the IOC and the SOPC was the major topic of a meeting between the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, HRH Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, IOC President Thomas Bach and the President of the SOPC and Minister of Sports, HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal in Riyadh on Sunday.

President Bach said: “There is now a very clear roadmap to the historic first-ever Olympic Esports Games. With the Road to the Olympic Esports Games starting this year, the Games are becoming a reality. This is further evidence of the strength of the partnership between the IOC and the SOPC in many areas.”

HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal said: “Today the journey to the first-ever Olympic Esports Games is clear, with an immediate timeline that works for all parties and sees the Road to Olympic Esports Games start in 2025. Together with the IOC there is real momentum, unity and clarity on the way forward, with the focus now on delivering.  

“Already Saudi Arabia is looking forward to welcoming the world and playing its part to help the dreams of so many esports athletes come true. Just as we are seeing across all sports in the Kingdom, there is real growth and new opportunities to grasp as part of an exciting future for all.”

The partnership between the IOC and the SOPC comes at a time of significant growth of sport overall in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom has staged over 100 international events for both male and female athletes, including esports, football, motorsports, tennis, equestrian and golf, attracting more than three million sports fans.

Overall sports participation levels have more than tripled since 2015 to almost 50 per cent of the country’s population. The number of sports federations has also increased threefold during this time, from 32 to 97.

A joint committee of the IOC and the SOPC has been set up to steer the Games. It is chaired by IOC Member Ser Miang Ng and co-chaired by HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal. The committee consists of six people, three from each partner, and is currently working to define the games that will be part of the first edition of the Olympic Esports Games.

Source African Sports Media                                     

The Ghana Armwrestling Federation is gearing up to host its annual Independence Day Armwrestling challenge, tagged “Battle for Independence,” on March 7, 2025, in Accra.

The event promises to be an electrifying display of strength, skill, and patriotism, as Ghana’s top arm wrestlers face off in a battle for supremacy with their counterparts from neighbouring countries. The tournament will feature various weight categories, with athletes competing for medals, prizes, and the ultimate bragging rights.

The Independence Day Armwrestling will feature guest pullers from Nigeria, Benin, and Togo, adding an international flavour to the competition. The foreign athletes will compete alongside their Ghanaian counterparts, making for a thrilling and unpredictable independence day showdown.

And in a major coup, the Ghana Armwrestling Federation has confirmed that a star-studded lineup of Ghana’s best Armwrestlers will be on the bill, including Africa’s best female armwrestler, Grace Minta, who will take on the best female Armwrestlers from Ghana and West Africa. Others are Mabel Yeboah, a rising star in Ghanaian Armwrestling; Daniel Acquah, a seasoned Armwrestler with a reputation for delivering thrilling matches; Henry Otoo, a dominant force in Ghanaian Armwrestling; and Prince Affum, a fan favourite known for his incredible strength and technique. Charles Osei Asibey Jnr, the son of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation President, who will be looking to make a name for himself in the sport, Afia Kumah, a formidable Armwrestler from the Ghana Police Service, and Issah Kunya, a top Armwrestler from the 3C Club.

Meanwhile, a strong contingent of Nigerian arm wrestlers, namely Sarah Matthews, Blessing Ogunbure, Olubisi Oyewusi, Mausi Zanu, Aniedu Godwin, and Chinedu Isama, will also be competing in the challenge.

Benin will also be represented by a talented team of arm wrestlers made up of African Games double gold medallist Marie Rose Laleye, Sébastien Kpaloko, and Marcel Vitchoedo.

Togo will also be sending a strong team, led by Amou Amouzou Honoré and Tchagbeleou Razak.

President Charles Osei Asibey of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation has disclosed that “this year’s independence Armwrestling challenge is going to be bigger and better than previous events. We have a strong lineup of athletes, both local and international, and we’re expecting a thrilling competition that will showcase the best of West African Armwrestling.”

The “Battle for Independence” Armwrestling challenge will be broadcast LIVE on TV, bringing the excitement and drama of the competition to living rooms across the country.

The “Battle for Independence” Armwrestling tournament put together by the Ghana Armwrestling Federation is part of Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience for sports fans and patriots alike as Ghana witnesses the ultimate showdown in Ghanaian Armwrestling!

Source Ghana Armwrestling Federation