by Silas Boahene | Feb 20, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Other Sports
Waste management company, Zoomlion Ghana Limited, has successfully trained and deployed new sanitation recruits to enhance sanitation services during the upcoming 13th All African Games in Accra from March 8th to 24th, 2024. The recruits underwent a comprehensive two-week training program at the Army Peace Operations Training School (APOTS) at Bundase Training Camp.
The training covered essential skills such as basic management, drill, cleaning techniques, self-discipline, physical fitness, time management, teamwork, and crowd control. Mr. Ernest Kusi, the Director of Service Quality and Monitoring at Zoomlion Ghana Limited, emphasized the company’s commitment to service excellence. The training aimed to instill qualities such as self-discipline, resilience, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability to challenges, crucial for effective sanitation services during large-scale events.
Mr. Kusi highlighted Zoomlion’s extensive experience in providing sanitation services at major sports tournaments, including CAN 2008 and CAN 2010 in Ghana and Angola, respectively. The goal is to ensure that all sports facilities hosting the 13th All African Games remain clean throughout the event.
The training took place at APOTS, certified by the United Nations and recognized as one of its kind in West Africa for peace operations training. Colonel Clement Dingane, the Commander at APOTS, emphasized the importance of self-discipline in achieving organizational goals. He expressed confidence that the training would equip the recruits with the necessary skills and self-discipline to deliver effective sanitation services.
The 13th African Games are set to be hosted in Ghana across three cities – Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast. Zoomlion’s trained sanitation team is poised to play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene at the various sports centers during this significant international event.
by Silas Boahene | Feb 20, 2024 | Africa, Athletics, Ghana, International, Other Sports
The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is calling on the government to take proactive measures in ensuring the consistent upkeep of the Borteyman Sports Complex. Expressing concern over the neglected state of facilities like the Essipong and Tamale Sports Stadia, IFMA emphasizes the vital role of maintenance in preserving the functionality of sports complexes.
Linda Lanquaye-Mills, a Property and Facility Manager, stressed the importance of proactive maintenance practices in preventing the decline of once-thriving sports hubs. IFMA highlights the plight of Essipong and Tamale Sports Stadia, cautioning against a similar fate for the Borteyman Sports Complex, especially as it is set to host the All-African Games.
Facilities management, often overlooked, is crucial in ensuring that buildings serve their intended purpose and provide occupants with conducive environments. IFMA is actively working to educate the public about the significance of proper facility management.
The commissioning of the Borteyman Sports Complex by President Akufo-Addo underscores the need for a dedicated facility manager. The recent issues at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting maintenance.
IFMA stresses the importance of continuous monitoring and upkeep, even after major events like the All-African Games. Responsibilities include regular checks on grass quality and ensuring the cleanliness of the pool.
Hayford Anoba, the Area Facility Manager for FIDES Group, emphasizes a team approach in prolonging the lifespan of facilities. He encourages Ghanaians to take ownership of their surroundings and educate themselves about facility management to ensure the well-maintenance of public amenities.
In our increasingly digitized society, education is key. While the government has a role in providing and maintaining facilities, the ultimate responsibility lies with citizens and those in charge to preserve these resources for the benefit of all.
by Silas Boahene | Feb 20, 2024 | Africa, Athletics, Ghana, International
Accra Set to Host Inaugural Black Star Marathon in July 2024
Accra, the capital of Ghana, is gearing up to host the inaugural Black Star Marathon on July 27th, marking a significant addition to the international running calendar. This competitive event, organized by the Runathon Ghana Foundation, aims to bring together professional athletes and recreational runners in a celebration of athleticism and unity.
Inspired by the ideals of the renowned Pan-Africanist Marcus Mosiah Garvey, who championed the belief that Black people could achieve greatness through collaboration and self-building, the Black Star Marathon seeks to embody these principles.
Replacing the former Accra City Marathon, the Black Star Marathon is anticipated to draw over 10,000 participants, creating a dynamic and memorable experience for both runners and spectators. The event not only showcases the lively spirit of Accra but also serves as a platform for fostering a new generation of healthy and physically active individuals.
Positioned as a running festival, the Black Star Marathon offers a range of long-distance events, including the standard 42.2 km marathon for men and women aged 18 and above. Additionally, participants can engage in a 42.2 km wheelchair marathon and a 10 km mass run/walk/jog open to all. These diverse events provide opportunities for both local and international athletes to compete, enhance their performances, and engage with runners from around the world.
Beyond the race itself, the Runathon Foundation, through the Black Star Marathon, aims to support athletes with essential resources for proper training. This includes provisions such as coaching and mentoring, nutritional guidance, equipment, and access to facilities. The event not only promotes physical activity but also underscores a commitment to the holistic development of athletes, contributing to the growth of the running community in Ghana and beyond.
by Silas Boahene | Feb 20, 2024 | Africa, Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Other Sports, Soccer
As the 13th African Games approach, scheduled to be held in Accra and Cape Coast from March 8th to 23rd, 2024, preparations are in full swing. The quadrennial event will feature a total of 30 sporting disciplines, with 10 venues across Accra and Cape Coast hosting the various competitions.
Of the 30 disciplines, eight will serve as qualifiers for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. These include wrestling, tennis, cycling, athletics, swimming, badminton, table tennis, and triathlon. Notably, swimming competitions will unfold at the Borteyman Sports Complex, Aquatic Center.
Additionally, six disciplines will be showcased as demonstration sports, adding diversity to the event. These include pickleball, sambo, E-sports, mixed martial arts, scrabble, and speedball.
The competitions will be spread across ten different venues, each dedicated to specific games. Notable venues include the University of Ghana, Legon, where events like athletics, football, rugby, and weightlifting will take place. The Trust Sports Emporium will host karate, boxing, mixed martial arts, judo, and taekwondo. The Accra Sports Stadium will be the epicenter for wrestling, sambo, and football. Pokoase will witness cycling competitions on the Ablekuma-Pokuase Highway.
Here is a comprehensive list of venues and their respective events:
Borteyman
- Badminton – Multipurpose Hall
- Indoor Volleyball – Multi-purpose Hall
- Handball – Dome
- Table Tennis – Dome
- Triathlon – Aquatic Centre
- Tennis – Tennis Sports Complex
- Swimming – Aquatic Centre
University of Ghana, Legon
- 3X3 Basketball – Outdoor Basketball Court
- Athletics – Legon Stadium
- Men’s Football – Legon Stadium
- Rugby – Rugby Stadium
- Weightlifting – GCB Hall
- Speedball – GCB Hall
- Pickleball – Netball Court
- Arm Wrestling – Cedi Conference Centre
Trust Sports Emporium
- Karate-Do – Ga Mashie Hall
- Boxing – Bukom Boxing Arena
- Mixed Martial Arts – Ga Mashie Hall
- Judo – Ga Mashie Hall
- Taekwondo – Ga Mashie Hall
Alisa Hotel, Ridge
- Scrabble – Alisa Hotel
- Chess – Alisa Hotel
Accra Sports Stadium
- Wrestling – Hana Hathramani Hall
- Sambo – Hana Hathramani Hall
- Men’s Football – Main football field
Pokoase
- Cycling – Ablekuma-Pokuase Highway
Theodocia Okoh Pitch, Accra
- Field Hockey – Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium
La Beach
- Beach Volleyball – Laboma Beach Volleyball Court
Cape Coast Sports Stadium
- Women’s Football – Cape Coast Sports Stadium.
This comprehensive list provides insight into the diverse array of sports and the locations where the 13th African Games will unfold, showcasing the talents and skills of athletes from across the continent.
by Silas Boahene | Feb 20, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Other Sports
As the 13th African Games, known as Accra 2023, approaches (scheduled from March 8th to 23rd, 2024), Ghanaian cyclists are diligently training to ensure peak performance. Embracing the challenges of cycling, they emphasize the importance of managing pain for success, stating that progress comes from facing faster, not easier, conditions. The cyclists highlight the necessity of venturing where the competition is stiff to enhance their skills.
Mr. Shaban Mohamed, Secretary General of the Ghana Cycling Association, expresses optimism about the dedicated Ghanaian cyclists, acknowledging their sacrifices and anticipating their success. He applauds the support from the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and the Ministry of Youth & Sports in facilitating the cyclists’ training for the Games.
The selection process for representatives involves inviting top cyclists from across Ghana to prove their worth. The event, organized at Ablekuma Olebu Vicolis Area, will see Ghana facing tough competition from cycling powerhouses such as Eritrea, Morocco, Algeria, and Burkina Faso. According to Mr. Dennis Moore, the Public Relations Officer of Ghana Cycling, these nations boast formidable cyclists who will provide a formidable challenge to the Ghanaian team.
