Sports Minister Kofi Adams has pledged to tackle the key challenges facing Ghanaian sports, including poor funding, corruption, and inadequate infrastructure.
In an exclusive interview with Metro TV Sports, he laid out his vision to revive the nation’s sporting sector.
“Funding has not been good for Ghanaian sports, and where there is some funding, there is corruption,” Kofi Adams stated, adding that transparency and accountability must be prioritized to ensure funds are used effectively.
He stressed that attracting corporate investment would require a professional approach from both fans and players.
“Fans and the playing bodies must behave themselves to lure corporate sectors to invest in our sports,” he noted.
On the controversial 10% tax on betting winnings, Adams made his stance clear, Kofi Adams stated “To directly tax wins is wrong. Instead, a percentage should go into a sports development fund.”
He argued that this approach would provide much-needed financial support for various sporting disciplines.
Improving sports infrastructure remains a key focus for the minister. “I prefer 50 well-built pitches over 100 poorly constructed ones,” he said, promising to reassess Ghana Premier League venues and prioritize infrastructural development, particularly in deprived regions.
“We have poor sports facilities, especially in my region and other underserved areas. These will be looked at,” he assured.
The Sports Minister also emphasized the importance of maintaining existing facilities. “We need the right materials to properly maintain our sports infrastructure so they can serve future generations,” he stated.
Football remains central to his agenda, but Adams made it clear that all sports will receive attention.
“Football is the passion of our people, but attention will be paid to all sports, not just football,” he stated. Women’s football and lesser-known sports will receive increased funding through an Olympic Cycle Funding system, ensuring a more balanced approach to sports development.
Addressing the state of the Black Stars, Adams acknowledged their poor performance in recent years.
“The Black Stars’ statistics are in decline and very poor. We will support the team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup,” he assured.
Additionally, he vowed to tackle issues regarding unpaid bonuses and improve allowances for Premier League players.
He also sent a strong message to the Ghana Football Association (GFA), cautioning them against working in isolation.
“There is a structural issue that must be addressed within our football governing body,” he said.
To ensure safety at league matches, Kofi Adams announced plans to introduce security measures, including body cameras and CCTV installations at stadiums. “If the league is to continue, safety must be a priority,” he emphasized.
By: Kofi Seyram Boboli | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
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