Mrs. Joyce Mahama, the President of the Women Sports Association of Ghana (WOSPAG), was elected as the President of the African Women In Sports Association (AWISA) last Sunday at a ceremony held at the MPlaza Hotel in Accra, Ghana.

In addition to Mrs. Mahama, other executives were also elected to AWISA leadership positions. Madam Hadijah Namanda from Uganda secured the role of Vice President, with Stephanie from Seychelles elected as Secretary. Lisa from Namibia will serve as Assistant Secretary, while Grace Asiam from Ghana takes on the role of Treasurer.

Madam Anna from Angola, a candidate for the presidency, was instead elected as the Regional Chairperson for Region 5. Ms. Hannah Bennie from Ghana was chosen as Regional Chairperson for Region 2 (West Africa). Five regional chairpersons were elected, aligning with the African Union (AU) regions, with some retaining their prior roles.

Other key representatives elected include Anna Ferreira from Angola, Stephanie from Seychelles, Sheila Dasha from Mauritius, and Elizabeth Ngulungu from Namibia, alongside Corol Garose from Namibia, who will bring her experience as a former Vice President to support AWISA’s goals.

Mrs. Mahama revealed her vision to unite African women in sports, promote gender equality, and foster greater female participation across all levels of sport, from grassroots to elite competition. She emphasized her goal to combat discrimination and violence against women in sports and provide a comfortable environment for female athletes with access to necessary resources. Additionally, Mrs. Mahama aims to elevate Ampe, a traditional African game, to a recognized sport across the continent within her four-year term.

The event was graced by Nii Kojo Ashifi Papanyinra 1, also known as Mr. Ben Nunoo Mensah, President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), who encouraged AWISA to uphold its mission and advocate for inclusivity in sports. He highlighted the importance of gender equity and called for equal participation opportunities for both boys and girls.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Mahama appealed to corporate sponsors to support AWISA’s objectives and help the organization make a positive impact for African women in sports.