By Francis Ahorlu

Copyright vision1fm

Minister of Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, has confirmed intentions to thoroughly renovate Ghana’s current sports facilities, notwithstanding President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to build seven new stadiums next year.

At present, two significant venues — the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi and the Essipong Stadium in Sekondi — are closed for renovations. Numerous other facilities have fallen into disrepair due to years of inadequate maintenance. The Accra Sports Stadium, which is Ghana’s sole venue authorized to host CAF and FIFA-sanctioned events, has also had parts closed off for safety concerns.

In an interview, the Buem MP emphasized that the ministry’s strategy will extend beyond mere superficial repairs.

“We are not merely going to renovate; we are going to refurbish [existing stadiums],” Adams stated. “Upon assuming my role and reviewing the documents, I found that substantial amounts of money, millions of cedis, have been allocated for renovations, yet we observe no tangible results. We believe it is essential to properly refurbish the stadiums we possess to a standard that is highly acceptable.”

Adams additionally disclosed that the government plans to enhance sports infrastructure in underprivileged regions.

“We will also construct facilities in areas that currently lack any stadiums,” he added.