Former Black Stars Player and founder of the Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG), Anthony Baffoe, has emphasized the importance of preserving Ghana’s football history for future generations.
Isn’t this beautiful? 😍 Look at the way our Gallant Heroes announced their presence as we honor them
— Happy 98.9 FM (@HAPPY989FM) December 13, 2023
Today.
They were the first Black Stars players who won Ghana’s First AFCON trophy. Out of 18 players who represented these are 5 the still alive!#CelebratingOurHeroes pic.twitter.com/Zjcj6H0Kw3
In a poignant address at Happy FM’s “Celebrating our Heroes” initiative, Mr. Baffoe expressed, “It’s about time we learn how to pass on our history to the coming generations.”
He called on the National Sports Authority (NSA) to collaborate with veteran journalists, referring to them as the living archives of the nation. He suggested the formation of a task force consisting of these experienced journalists, stating, “They are our Google, and I believe when we speak to them, we can produce something exceptionally good for our heroes.”
The launch of this initiative holds special significance as it marked the 60th anniversary of Ghana’s historic 1963 AFCON triumph, a moment that not only defined the nation’s football legacy but also inspired generations.
Officially, we have launched our coverage for the 2023 AFCON scheduled to take in Cote D’ Ivoire next year.
— Happy 98.9 FM (@HAPPY989FM) December 13, 2023
The tournament will take place from the January 13- February 11.#HappySports #2023AFCON #AFCONHub2023 pic.twitter.com/x4SeJHUELY
Happy FM, in addition to broadcasting the AFCON, celebrated the heroes who played pivotal roles in shaping Ghana’s football history.
Among the 18-man squad that proudly represented Ghana at the 1963 Nations Cup tournament, five surviving players were honored during the event: Dodoo Ankrah (Real Republikans), Kofi Pare (Real Republikans), Wilberforce Mfum (Kotoko), Leonard Acquah (Defence Stars), and Anum Okai (Hearts of Oak).
AFCON 2023 is scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, in Ivory Coast, where 24 teams will vie for the prestigious continental title. This marks the second time that the Africa Cup of Nations finals will be organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Côte d’Ivoire.