Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams

Yesterday, we officially launched the 24th African Senior Athletics Championships – Accra 2026. What stood out for me was the clarity of purpose and the shared commitment from the Local Organising Committee, the Ghana Athletics, and all stakeholders to deliver a championship Ghana can be proud of. Athletics has always been one of Ghana’s strongest expressions on the global stage. From the era of Mike Ahey and Alice Anum to the current strides of Abdul Rasheed Saminu and Rose Yeboah, the potential has always been clear. What is even more encouraging is what we continue to see at the school level. The energy, rivalry, and raw talent, including what we witnessed recently in Kumasi, remind us that the future of athletics in Ghana is active and ready. It was refreshing to see young talents like Gaza present, and rightly acknowledged as part of that future we are building. As a government, we remain committed to supporting this journey through the right structures, including the Ghana Sports Fund, to ensure that talent is nurtured into excellence. Accra 2026 presents an important opportunity, not just for competition, but for visibility, growth, and commercial value. To Corporate Ghana, this is a space worth paying attention to. Africa will be in Accra. The stage will be set. Let us come together and make this count.

I had the honour of receiving the family of Rev. Osei Kofi, led by Dan Kwaku Yeboah, as they invited me to a book launch in honour of one of Ghana’s true football legends. Rev. Osei Kofi’s contribution to Ghana football remains remarkable. From his achievements with the Black Stars and Asante Kotoko to his deep sense of patriotism and service, his story continues to inspire. History not documented is history lost. We must continue to celebrate our legends and preserve their legacy for the next generation to learn from.

Yesterday, Ghana came together as one for our Black Stars. From Corporate Ghana to the football family, supporters, creatives and the wider public, the show of belief was deeply appreciated. When I assumed office, one of my key priorities was clear. To rebuild trust in our sports ecosystem and bring Corporate Ghana closer by demonstrating accountability, transparency and fiscal discipline. These principles are anchored firmly in the vision and Reset Agenda of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, whose leadership continues to guide this transformation. Yesterday’s response is a strong endorsement of that direction. I extend my sincere appreciation to His Excellency the President for his leadership, and to the Deputy Minister for Finance for chairing the fundraising committee with diligence and commitment. To Corporate Ghana, our partners, and every Ghanaian who has contributed or shown support, we are grateful. Let me assure the nation that every cedi and dollar raised will be accounted for with the highest level of integrity. This is our Black Stars. This journey belongs to all of us. I encourage every Ghanaian to be part of this movement. Dial *899# or visit ghworldcupraffle.com and join us as we support our team on the road to the FIFA World Cup. Together, we will carry the spirit of Ghana onto the global stage.

Yesterday, we took an important step in bringing the Ghanaian people closer to the journey of the Black Stars. The World Cup Raffle Initiative is not just about the opportunity to travel and support the team on the global stage. It is about giving every Ghanaian a sense of belonging in this journey, a chance to be part of something that unites us all. Football has always brought us together in moments of pride, reflection, and hope. As we prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026, it is important that this journey is shared, not only by the players on the pitch, but by the millions of Ghanaians who believe in them. We are mindful of the need for transparency, accountability and trust. That is why this initiative has been structured with clear oversight and processes to ensure that every commitment made is honoured. Beyond the excitement, this initiative also contributes to a broader vision. Through the Ghana Sports Fund, we are building a sustainable pathway to support infrastructure, develop talent and strengthen grassroots sports across the country. This is a collective effort. The Black Stars carry the flag, but the nation carries the spirit. Let us move forward together.

Yesterday, I paid a working visit to the office of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) where I had the opportunity to engage with its leadership, led by the President, Mr. Richard Akpokavie, on strengthening collaboration to advance Olympic sports in Ghana. Our discussions centred on athlete development, technical training for coaches and officials, and how Ghana can better position itself on the African and global sporting stage. I was particularly encouraged to learn about the Ghanaian athletes currently benefiting from IOC scholarships across several disciplines including athletics, boxing, swimming, judo, taekwondo, weightlifting and rowing. Sports remains a powerful force that touches every aspect of life health, discipline, opportunity and national pride. It is therefore important that we continue to invest deliberately in structures that support our athletes to compete at the highest level. I also deeply appreciate the Ghana Olympic Committee for their strong support for the Ghana Sports Fund. In a remarkable show of commitment, the GOC Board donated GHS 40,000 from their own resources to support the Fund and pledged to serve as ambassadors to help promote and advocate for it. This gesture demonstrates a shared belief that sustainable financing is essential for the growth of sports in Ghana. Together, we will continue to build stronger systems that create opportunities for our athletes and inspire the next generation.

I had the honour of receiving the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Christian Tetteh Yohonu, who paid a courtesy call at the Ministry of Sports and Recreation this afternoon. Our discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between the Ghana Police Service and the sports sector, particularly in ensuring safety and security across our sporting activities. I commended the Police Service for the professionalism and dedication shown by the Sports Police Units in providing improved security at league venues across the country. We also reflected on the impressive performance of the Police Ladies Football Club, whose achievements continue to project Ghana positively on the continental stage. Beyond competition, we explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in sports infrastructure and recreational development, recognising the role of sports in promoting discipline, health and national unity. I am grateful to the IGP for the visit and for the continued support of the Ghana Police Service in strengthening sports and recreation in our country.

Sixty Nine years on, the spirit of independence continues to guide us to work harder, stay united and remain committed to building a nation that offers opportunity and dignity for all. Happy Independence Day, Ghana. 🇬🇭

It was a privilege to welcome Madam Bushira Hajij, President of the Confederation of African Volleyball, during her visit to Ghana for the Kalibi Zone 3 Volleyball Championship. Her commendation of Ghana’s efforts in hosting a vibrant and competitive tournament is deeply encouraging. The enthusiasm, talent and discipline displayed by the teams reaffirm our belief that Africa possesses the capacity to excel in volleyball on the global stage. Volleyball is deeply rooted in our continent, and with deliberate investment, structured development and sustained media support, it can grow into a major force internationally. Our commitment as a Ministry remains clear. Under the leadership of H.E. the President, we are steadily improving infrastructure and creating opportunities to nurture talent across disciplines. Sports development requires collective effort. With strategic partnerships and stronger visibility, African volleyball can reach the heights it truly deserves.

Yesterday marked another important moment for Jasikan. The construction of the Jasikan town roads has officially begun. A promise made to the people is now becoming a lived reality. These roads are not just about asphalt and drainage. They are about dignity for traders, safer journeys for our children, easier access for farmers and renewed confidence for every household and business in the municipality. Development must touch the everyday lives of our people. Step by step, together, we are building the Jasikan and Buem we all deserve.

This evening at the Presidential Dialogue with the private sector at Kempinski, I felt a quiet sense of progress. For many years, sport has often been treated as an afterthought in conversations about the economy. Tonight, under the leadership of His Excellency President @JDMahama, sport was placed where it belongs; at the centre of national economic discussions. The President affirmed that sport is part of Ghana’s growth architecture; linked to investment, tourism, youth employment and global visibility. This is leadership. The establishment of the Ghana Sports Fund was a promise His Excellency made and delivered. Seeing sport positioned in rooms where economic direction is shaped gives confidence that we are building something lasting. Grateful to His Excellency for the clarity, commitment and consistency. The work continues.

Yesterday, we officially commissioned the DVLA Buem Ultra Centre in Jasikan. In the company of the Chief Executive of DVLA, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, the Oti Regional Minister Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, the Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Parke-Davis Magyigbe, traditional authorities and community members, we opened a facility that brings essential public services closer to our people. For years, residents had to travel long distances for basic DVLA services. Today, that burden is reduced. The centre will deliver efficient and transparent services, create employment opportunities for our young people, and stimulate economic activity within the municipality. I am grateful to the leadership of DVLA and all stakeholders who worked to make this a reality. Development must be practical and people centred. We will continue to work, steadily and deliberately, to ensure Buem receives its fair share of progress.

Today, we commission the DVLA Buem Ultra Centre in Jasikan. For me, this is about bringing essential public services closer to our people, reducing the long journeys, the delays, and the inconvenience many have endured over the years. Development is a steady work. It is one project at a time, one promise fulfilled at a time. I remain committed to ensuring that Buem continues to receive the attention and infrastructure it deserves.

This Fund belongs to all of us. I am honoured to contribute personally and grateful to my fellow MPs who followed in support.

Today on the Floor of Parliament, I called for national support for the Ghana Sports Fund; a structured and transparent vehicle to properly finance sports and recreation in our country. As a personal commitment, I pledged two months of my salary to the Fund. I was encouraged by the strong solidarity shown by colleague Members of Parliament who also made personal contributions in support of this national effort. But this cannot end in Parliament. Sports belongs to all of us; government, corporate Ghana, the media, our federations, our communities, and every young athlete who dreams of opportunity. The Ghana Sports Fund is now in place. Let us grow it together. Let us invest in our talent. Let us build a system that gives certainty, fairness and long-term support to Ghana sport. The door is open. The time is now.

I had the honour of receiving H.E. Ivan Lukachuk, Ambassador of Ukraine to Ghana, together with a delegation of investors and Mr. Andrii Zasakha, President of a Ukrainian Premier League club, for a very constructive discussion on football development. Our engagement focused on exploring the establishment of a football academy in Ghana as part of a broader effort to deepen sports cooperation between our two countries. Ghana’s strength in grassroots talent and Ukraine’s experience in structured football development present meaningful opportunities for collaboration. We reflected on how sport can serve as a bridge between nations, fostering resilience, cultural exchange and youth empowerment. I am encouraged by the delegation’s genuine interest in investing in Ghana’s football ecosystem and supporting long-term talent development. Ghana remains open to strategic partnerships that strengthen our infrastructure, enhance technical capacity and create pathways for our young players to grow. Football continues to unite us beyond borders, and we look forward to nurturing relationships that benefit both nations.

I had a warm and forward-looking meeting with Dr. Edward Nartey Botchway, Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana Ltd. I expressed my sincere appreciation to Absa for organising the Black Star Marathon last year, an initiative we proudly supported. The event brought people together, promoted healthy living and demonstrated the power of sports as a tool for national development. It was encouraging to hear about Absa’s continued investment in communities, from supporting schools and small businesses to improving livelihoods across the country. Their commitment to impact beyond banking is commendable. We shared ideas on strengthening collaboration, particularly in grassroots and school sports, and expanding recreation initiatives that promote active and healthy lifestyles. I look forward to building on this partnership as we work together to advance sports and recreation in Ghana for the benefit of our people.

Today, I received a delegation from the @SWAG_Ghana , led by President Kwabena Yeboah, and including Vice President Evelyn Nsiah Asare, General Secretary Charles Osei Asibey, Deputy General Secretary Kenneth Odeng Adade, Treasurer Owuraku Nsiah, and Women’s Commissioner Mavis Amanor. We discussed ways to strengthen Ghana’s sports sector, focusing on grassroots development, improving facilities across all disciplines, and supporting the historic sports fund. I reaffirmed my commitment to working with SWAG to grow sports, support talent, and promote Ghanaian athletes.

I was proud to officially inaugurate the Local Organizing Committee for the 2026 T20 Cricket Tournament. This marks another bold step in our mission to diversify sports and position Ghana as a leading host of international events. Following the success of the African Games, we are confident in our ability to deliver a seamless, world-class cricket tournament in March 2026. With six teams competing and two qualification slots at stake, the stakes are high — and Ghana is ready. I have full confidence in the LOC, led by Mr. Nii Okai Evans Anfom, to work with all stakeholders to ensure professionalism and excellence. Together, we are leveraging sports for national development, youth empowerment, tourism growth, and international engagement. Ghana is ready to welcome the cricketing world.

Yesterday marks an important step for Ghana sports. The Ghana Sports Fund has officially received its first donation: GHS 100,000 from the National Investment Bank. I am deeply grateful to the Management of NIB, for this show of confidence in our vision to reset and properly resource sports development in our country. Funding has always been one of the biggest constraints in Ghana sports. This contribution is not just financial support, it is a statement of belief that structured, transparent investment can change the story of our athletes and our institutions. I want to assure the good people of Ghana that every cedi received into the Ghana Sports Fund will be used strictly for the purpose for which the Fund was established; to strengthen systems, support talent, and build sustainable sports development. This is only the beginning. Together, we will build a stronger future for Ghana sports.

I received the new Executive Board of the @ghanaboxingfed , led by President Mr. Dauda Fuseini. I am encouraged by their commitment to providing effective leadership and aligning the federation’s work with government policies. I called for integrity, discipline, and respect in boxing, warned against match-fixing, and urged unity for the good of Ghanaian boxing. I urged the federation to build a strong structure, attract investment, and create career opportunities for athletes. Together, we aim to make Ghanaian boxing disciplined, honest, and competitive internationally