Rawlings to speak at Azumah’s book launch

Former President Jerry John Rawlings would speak at the book launch of boxing legend Azumah Nelson scheduled for Wednesday October 29, in Accra, organisers have confirmed.

The charismatic Ghanaian leader, who played a significant role in the career development of Azumah, would share with the audience his special relationship with the African boxer and some memorable moments.

In a chat with Yaw Sakyi Afari, Programmes Coordinator and Personal Manager of Azumah Nelson, he confirmed the former President would speak about the man he mentored during his early boxing career.

“Yes the former President Jerry John Rawlings will speak at the book launch and we’re very delighted to have him,” Yaw Sakyi said.

“The former President and Azumah have a long-standing relationship which dates back to his amateur days. He played an instrumental role in his development and so will take the opportunity to share his memories of their past time,” he added.

The iconic Ghanaian boxer recalls moments when Flt. Lt. Rawlings fed fans with beans and gari, changed his room and rented an apartment for him amongst many other supports he offered him during the early days of his career.

“Mr Rawlings has been a great supporter for many years and I owe him a lot for the advancement of my career,” Azumah said of the former President ahead of the book launch.

“He helped me from my amateur days and offered me financial assistance and guidance which contributed positively to my career. I will forever remain grateful to him for his support all these years and truly owe him abundant gratitude”.

The event would bring together the country’s crème de crème including politicians, businessmen and women, sports personalities, foreign missions, corporate Ghana, academia and many others.

Part of the proceeds from the book launch would go into the construction of the first phase of the Azumah Nelson Foundation Complex, a multi-purpose sports academy to be established at Akuse.

Already the Foundation, with support from US-based organisation Building Bridges Worldwide, is constructing a 6-unit classroom block for an adopted school in Anum Apapam in the Eastern Region.

The legendary Ghanaian boxer had a glittering career in the ring as an amateur and professional, and took the featherweight world title for the first time in 1984.

He had a high-profile rivalry with Australia’s Jeff Fenech and is considered the greatest boxer to come out of Africa.

The Azumah Nelson Foundation acknowledges Geo-Drill Ghana and Alisa Hotel for their contribution to this grand launch.

After the launch, the book will be sold at Zenith Bank branches across the country. For more information visit www.azumahnelsonfoundation.org.gh or email: info@azumahnelsfoundation.org.gh