Essikado Chief criticises poor maintenance of sporting facilities

Accra, July 3, GNA - Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Omanhen of Essikado Traditional Area, has expressed concern about the deteriorating state of sporting facilities across the country.

He described the trend as disturbing and has challenged the sporting media to compel authorities to ensure adequate maintenance of these assets.

Nana Nketsia, who was speaking at the 36th Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) MTN Awards Night, on Saturday, challenged the media to highlight such issues for the appropriate consideration by the relevant authorities.

Citing the Essipong and Tamale Stadia, constructed for the Ghana 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, he said the multi-million dollar facilities are suffering from inadequate maintenance.

He, therefore, tasked SWAG to launch advocacy programs to save them from deterioration.

He expressed regret that more than three years after the Africa Cup of Nations, the two stadia remained uncompleted, hence not serving the full purpose for its construction.

Nana Nketsia also decried the lack of recreational facilities across the country, a phenomenon that is impeding the development of talents of the youth.

He also charged the SWAG membership to coerce authorities in various positions to remain accountable in the discharge of their duties towards the development of the country.

The traditional ruler commended SWAG for sustaining the event, which has served as a major platform to motivate sportsmen and women to go the extra mile in their endeavours.

Danny Jordaan, Chief Executive officer of the South Africa 2010 FIFA World Cup, recalled the legacy of the first ever Mundial on African soil, describing it as 93the best ever in the history of the quadrennial championship."

Jordaan, also a Vice President of the South Africa Football Association, (SAFA) said the tournament raked in a whopping $4.2 billion for the world soccer governing body, FIFA; 53 per cent more than the proceeds of Germany 2006.

He observed that the successful hosting of the tournament had erased the erroneous doubts about the continent's ability to stage major sporting events.

Ackah Anthony, President of SWAG, complained about the frequent change of Ministers of Youth and Sports, saying it was hampering the administration of the Ministry and Ghana sports in general.

He explained that four ministers in two years was certainly not a positive signal for coordination and pleaded with the Government to allow the incumbent Minister, Clement Kofi Humado, to stay his full tenure to ensure stability in the sector.

Nii Nortey Dua, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, paid glowing tribute to sports personalities whose efforts pedalled Ghana sports amongst the best during the year.

Black Stars striker Asamoah Gyan was adjudged the Sports Personality of the Year.

Gyan warded off competition from Black Stars teammate Ricahrd Kingson and International Boxing Federation bantamweight championship, Joseph King Kong Agbeko to scoop the flagship.

The 25-year old was also named Footballer of the Year. Over 30 sports personalities who distinguished themselves in 2010 were honoured at the event.