by Silas Boahene | Sep 25, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of Dangote Group, has expressed regret over not acquiring Premier League club Arsenal FC, acknowledging that the chance has likely passed. In a Bloomberg interview, Africa’s richest man revealed his earlier interest in purchasing the club when it was valued at around $2 billion, but his focus shifted to completing his refinery project. Now, with Arsenal performing well and its value soaring to approximately $4 billion, Dangote admits that buying the club no longer makes financial sense. Despite the missed opportunity, he remains a devoted Arsenal fan.
by Silas Boahene | Sep 25, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Other Sports
The Achimota Golf Club has awarded Mr. Ishmael Yamson, Board Chairman of MTN, the prestigious Emeritus Award during the 2024 MTN Maiden Golf Tournament, recognizing his significant contributions and 40-year commitment to the club. Presented by Achimota Golf Club President Frank Adu, the award acknowledges Mr. Yamson’s instrumental role in establishing the “Half House” facility on the golf course and exempts him from future membership dues and fees.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Yamson expressed his gratitude and urged members to continue supporting the club. The tournament saw competitive play, with Mr. Frederick Semenu Devour winning the men’s category and Mrs. Vastie Amoafo Yeboah emerging as the women’s champion. The event also marked the strengthening of the partnership between MTN and the Achimota Golf Club.
by Silas Boahene | Sep 25, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana
Derek Nii Asai Ankrah, a member of the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) Communications and Media Committee, has expressed his approval of the GBA’s progress under the leadership of President Abraham Kotei Neequaye. Despite the current absence of a world champion from Ghana, Ankrah believes the administration has made significant strides.
In an interview with Omashi TV, Ankrah noted that while many people assess the success of Ghanaian boxing by the number of world champions produced, the GBA’s role is different from that of promoters or trainers. He emphasized that the GBA is doing its best as a volunteer organization, and he is optimistic that Ghana will produce a world champion in due time.
Ankrah, who has served as the GBA scoremaster since the passing of the legendary J. A. Annan, highlighted that more fights have been sanctioned under the current GBA administration than in any previous regime. He also noted the increase in young boxers joining the sport. He praised Imax Boxing Promotions for organizing the Ghana Professional Boxing League, which has helped uncover new boxing talent.
He further commended the GBA for training new ring officials, who are now working alongside experienced referees such as Roger Banor, Erasmus Owoo, May Mensah Akakpo, and Shadrach Acquaye.
Ankrah acknowledged the challenges the GBA faces, particularly the lack of financial support, but expressed confidence that the organization is learning from its mistakes and is committed to advancing Ghanaian boxing.
He also recognized the achievements of six WBO Africa Champions from Ghana—Haruna Osumanu (Heavyweight), Jacob Laryea (Junior Middleweight), Faisal Abubakar (Super Lightweight), Sheriff Quaye (Lightweight), John Laryea (Featherweight), and Daniel Gorsh (Bantamweight)—and hopes they will have opportunities to fight for world titles.
As a member of the Ghana Boxing Supporters Union, Ankrah is optimistic about the future of Ghanaian boxing, stating, “At least we have achieved something or added something to Ghana Boxing, and the future is bright.”
Beyond his involvement in boxing, Ankrah is a banker, Pan-Africanist, and avid football fan, with his father, Mr. Abeka Ankrah (aka “Why Worry”), having played for Accra Hearts of Oak and the Black Stars. Ankrah himself played football in his youth under the name Eu-Mesh.
by Silas Boahene | Sep 23, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian prospects David Oduro and Abdul Aziz Issah watched from the stands as Barcelona B secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Zamora on Saturday. Oscar Urena’s 61st-minute goal marked the Catalans’ second win in Spain’s third tier.
Neither Oduro nor Issah was included in the matchday squad and had to witness the action from the stands. Both players joined the club this summer and are currently undergoing integration into the team after completing their transfers late.
While they have had the opportunity to train with Barcelona’s first team, the club believes they are not yet ready for competitive play. The talented duo continues to train with Barcelona B, eagerly awaiting their chance to shine.
Oduro signed a three-year deal with Barcelona, while Issah is on loan from Ghana Premier League clubs Accra Lions and Dreams FC.
by Silas Boahene | Sep 23, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Amazulu FC have bolstered their goalkeeping roster by signing experienced Ghanaian international goalkeeper Richard Ofori on a free transfer.
The former Black Stars shot-stopper was released by Orlando Pirates at the end of the 2023-24 season and brings a wealth of experience to the South African Premier League club. Ofori has previously played for Maritzburg United and Orlando Pirates, where he enjoyed considerable success, winning three MTN8 trophies and two Nedbank Cups during his tenure.
At Amazulu, Ofori will vie for the number one position with Bafana Bafana’s Veli Mothwa, as well as Olwethu Mzimela and Andile Mbajwa, as the team aims to build a competitive squad for the 2024-25 season.
The 30-year-old’s addition is anticipated to provide strong competition and depth in the goalkeeping department. Ofori’s last appearance for the Ghana national team came during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He is scheduled to undergo a medical examination before officially joining his new club in Durban, marking an exciting new chapter in his career within South African football.
