SOURCE: Ahashie Judeliver Eli
Nana Kwame Bediako, the Leader of the New Force, has laid out an ambitious vision for the future of sports in Ghana.
Speaking during the unveiling of his manifesto themed “12 Pillars to Economic Freedom,” on Sunday September 1, Bediako stated that the key to Ghana’s economic revival lies in ownership, control, and investment in local talents. His proposal stands on 16 multifunctional sports academies, one in each region of the country.
His plan aims to shift the focus from reliance on foreign sports and entertainment to developing homegrown talent. By investing in sports such as football, basketball, tennis, and boxing, Bediako hopes to create a sustainable and thriving sports ecosystem in Ghana.
The construction of these academies would provide a critical infrastructure for identifying and nurturing talent across all regions, ensuring that every young Ghanaian has the opportunity to develop their skills.
New Force: We will develop 16 multi-functional sports academies – Nana Kwame Bediako highlights his focus on sports and the creative industry, emphasizing ownership and control. #HappySports pic.twitter.com/TBb6nCfies
— Happy Sports (@HappySportsGh) September 2, 2024
“We don’t know where Ronaldo is. We don’t know where Messi is. You can find them in any of the regions, and therefore we’re not going to discriminate,”he stated, underscoring the potential for undiscovered talent in every corner of the country.
“Your child might be in an academy, but there is an education to support them,”he explained.
“They just don’t become a footballer without knowledge. Or they just don’t end up with their knowledge in their foot. This approach aims to produce well-rounded individuals who are knowledgeable about their country, its resources, and how they can contribute to society.”
By integrating educational opportunities into these sports academies, Bediako hopes to attract educational investors and create a pipeline of talents that is not only athletically gifted but also intellectually equipped. This dual focus on sports and education is designed to prepare young Ghanaians for success both on and off the field, fostering a new generation of leaders and innovators.
“The point is, we’re trying to beat athletes. World-class stars. Because they contribute to our economy. One artist can bring billions home,” Bediako added.
As Ghana looks to the future, Nana Kwame Bediako’s proposal to build 16 multifunctional sports academies represents a transformative approach to economic development. By investing in local talent and providing the necessary resources for their growth, Bediako believes that Ghana can unlock its full potential and create a thriving sports and creative industry that benefits all.