by Kelly Eric Ehor | Dec 11, 2024 | Ghana, Other Sports
The President of the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC), Samson Deen, has extended his congratulations to Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, on his victory in the recent presidential elections.
In a letter addressed to Mr. Mahama, Samson Deen commended him on his successful election, defeating Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and 11 other candidates, and expressed best wishes as he prepares to assume office on January 7, 2025.
“The African Paralympic Committee, the Paralympic Movement, and the entire sports fraternity across Africa extend warm congratulations on your decisive victory in Ghana’s presidential elections and pray for divine success as you prepare to take on the responsibilities of the highest office in Ghana,” the message read.
The AfPC president praised Mr. Mahama’s leadership qualities, expressing confidence in his ability to advance Ghana’s socioeconomic development through inclusive and transformative policies. He also urged the incoming administration to prioritize the development of sports infrastructure and talent in Ghana.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Dec 9, 2024 | Boxing, Ghana, International, Other Sports
Ghanaian boxer Gabriel Coffie (11-1, 10 KOs) has departed Accra for Toronto, Canada, where he will take on Steven Wilcox (25-4-1, 8 KOs) in an 8-round super lightweight clash this Sunday, December 8, 2024, at the Rebel Entertainment Complex.
Coffie’s coach, Randy of the Jamestown Boxing Gym, remains optimistic about their chances despite the challenge of fighting an experienced opponent on home turf.
“We’re confident of victory,” Randy stated. “This fight is a stepping stone toward our ultimate goal of competing for a world title. We’re ready to improve our record and make a statement.”
Coffie traveled to Canada alongside matchmaker and promoter Mubarak Yusif Nanor, determined to deliver a standout performance against the local favorite.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Dec 9, 2024 | Boxing, Ghana, Other Sports
President of the United Coaches Association of Ghana, Mr. Charles Quartey, has urged the government to invest in young boxers representing the nation, emphasizing their potential to become world champions.
In an exclusive interview on Omashi TV’s flagship program The Big Fight Night, Coach Quartey highlighted the abundance of talent in Ghana but lamented the lack of exposure and experience for young fighters.
As the founder and head trainer of the Charles Quartey Boxing Foundation, he recently led Ghana’s national youth team to the 2024 IBA Youth World International competition in Montenegro and Serbia. While the tournament provided invaluable experience, he noted that challenges such as late arrival, weather conditions, and biased officiating hindered the team’s success, leaving no Ghanaian boxer in the medal zone to secure cash rewards.
Coach Quartey called for more focus on training Ghanaian international technical officers, referees, and judges. He emphasized the importance of informed decision-making regarding affiliations with organizations like IBA and World Boxing.
While praising the increasing number of star-rated coaches in Ghana, he advised trainers to maintain a clear distinction between training amateurs and professionals. He also appealed to the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) to operate with fairness and professionalism, preserving the legacy of pioneers such as Samir Captan, Moses Foh Amoaning, and Peter Zwennes.
Quartey expressed concern over the high costs of renting the Bukom Boxing Arena and urged Ga chiefs to intervene if boxers are being exploited. He also urged fans to behave responsibly at events to maintain the sport’s reputation.
Additionally, he called for better remuneration for boxing coaches and appealed to the government to establish a national boxing training center, given the promising future of juvenile boxing in Ghana.
Coach Quartey concluded by commending the efforts of his executives at the United Coaches Association and the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF).
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Dec 9, 2024 | Boxing, Ghana, Other Sports
Bernie Johnson, popularly known as ‘BJ Wise,’ a prominent boxing manager in Ghana, has highlighted that managing boxers requires immense passion and a deep understanding of the sport. Speaking on Omashi TV’s The Big Fight Night, Johnson emphasized that financial rewards in Ghanaian boxing are minimal unless a boxer achieves a world title.
As the manager of notable boxers such as former WBO Africa Super Bantamweight champion Isaac Sackey, Isaac Commey, and Mawuli Adjei, Johnson shared the challenges he faces. He expressed frustration over incidents like the altercation between Commey and Sampson Segbedzi during the Box Office event, criticizing the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) for failing to enforce the sport’s rules effectively.
Johnson urged boxers to maintain discipline to attract credible managers and called for fair officiating and responsible behavior from boxing fans. He also emphasized the need for corporate and government support, pointing out that the financial struggles of amateur boxing significantly affect the professional scene.
“A fraction of the funds allocated to football, especially the Black Stars, could transform the fortunes of Ghanaian boxing,” Johnson remarked.
As chairman of the Greater Accra Amateur Boxing Association, he stressed the importance of strong leadership within the GBA to make the sport more appealing and sustainable. Johnson believes that if managed well, boxing has the potential to bring immense rewards and impact the entire nation positively.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Dec 6, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Other Sports
On World Disability Day, the Wendy Foundation has called on individuals with disabilities to stay committed and focused on their sporting endeavors.
The Foundation is dedicated to bringing joy to the lives of people with disabilities as the year draws to a close.
Ms. Wendy Naa Deide Sampah, CEO of the Wendy Foundation, also emphasized the need for free and fair elections. She encouraged people with disabilities to avoid any form of trouble and prayed for peace and the triumph of democracy.
World Disability Day aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities across all spheres of society and development. It also seeks to raise awareness of the challenges they face in political, social, economic, and cultural life.
This year’s theme, “Amplifying the Leadership of Disabled People for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” highlights the importance of disability inclusion. It emphasizes that such inclusion is not only a matter of social justice but also a benefit to society as a whole.
