As Ghana approaches the December 2024 elections, former President John Dramani Mahama, a presidential candidate for the New Democratic Congress (NDC), has unveiled a robust plan to revolutionize sports in the country. His manifesto outlines a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing the development of sports across all levels, from grassroots to elite athletes.
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Here’s a breakdown of his key proposals:
Boosting Football: Mahama plans to support the development of colts, Division One and Two, and the Ghana Premier League by increasing the salaries of all registered footballers and providing additional allowances. This initiative aims to incentivize and nurture local talent.
Upgrading Facilities: The former president promises to undertake emergency refurbishments of pitches and facilities at national stadia in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Cape Coast, and Sekondi to meet FIFA standards, ensuring that Ghana’s sports infrastructure is world-class.
Building International-Standard Stadia: Mahama will continue the long-standing policy of establishing international-standard stadia in all regions to promote regional competitions and development.
Creating Multi-Purpose Facilities: To foster regional sporting events and inter-school competitions, Mahama proposes the construction of more multi-purpose sports facilities as part of a broader talent development policy.
Equitable Investment: His plan includes ensuring fair investments across various national teams, including women’s football, disability sports, juvenile teams, and other lesser-known sports, to foster inclusivity and growth in all areas of sports.
Upgrading Sports Education: Mahama aims to transform the UEW Sports College into a modern Sports University, offering advanced training in sports, sports medicine, science, and sports management with campuses across Ghana.
Establishing Sports Centres of Excellence: His vision includes creating Sports Centres of Excellence in the northern, middle, and southern zones in partnership with universities and the private sector to enhance sports development nationwide.
Supporting Athletes: Consistent support for national athletes to compete internationally, along with schemes for post-competition careers and pension plans, will ensure economic security and continued development for sports professionals.
Scholarships for Talents: The manifesto proposes scholarships to promising sports talents, helping them reach their full potential.
Assisting Retired Sports Personalities: Mahama also aims to support retired sports figures in pursuing other sports-related careers, ensuring that their contributions to sports are recognized and valued even after their active careers.
Through these initiatives, John Dramani Mahama aims to elevate Ghana’s sports sector, ensuring it thrives both domestically and on the global stage.
