In a ceremonial induction held today at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the recently elected executives of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) were charged with the responsibility of guiding the association for the next four years.
Established in 1968, SWAG, the venerable umbrella organization for sports media in Ghana, has garnered acclaim for its unwavering commitment to recognizing the achievements of Ghanaian sports figures over its impressive 44-year history.
The recent elections marked a pivotal moment for the association as it embraced new leadership to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the realm of sports journalism.
Addressing the audience during the induction ceremony, Albert Dwunfuor, President of the Ghana Journalists Association, lauded SWAG for its enduring legacy and expressed confidence in the newly elected leaders.
Recognizing the intricacies of sports journalism, Dwunfuor emphasized the critical role the media plays in shaping public perceptions. He urged members to prioritize accuracy over speed in reporting, citing challenges such as bias and sensationalism that confront the sports journalism landscape.
“In managing such a broad audience, censorship remains a formidable task. Our loyalty, as journalists, should be to the citizens and, above all, to the truth. Let’s strive to uphold the truth at all times,” Dwunfuor urged.
Expressing gratitude for the support received over the years, newly inducted SWAG President Kwabena Yeboah acknowledged the backing of members, patrons, stakeholders, and sponsors.
While acknowledging the substantial resources invested in the national football team, the Black Stars, President Yeboah called for increased attention to other sports disciplines that often receive limited state support. He specifically appealed to the government to recognize the importance of sports beyond football, citing athletics, boxing, and arm wrestling as equally vital components of Ghana’s sporting landscape.
President Yeboah used the platform to draw attention to the upcoming African Games, emphasizing its significance to SWAG and the broader sports community.
The newly inducted SWAG executive team comprises:
- President: Kwabena Yeboah
- Vice-President: Evelyn Nsiah Asare
- General Secretary: Charles Osei Asibey
- Deputy General Secretary: Kenneth Odeng Adade
- Treasurer: Owuraku Nsiah
- Women’s Commissioner: Mavis Amanor
- Executive Committee Members: Franklyn Anane Gyimah, Tilda Elinam Acolor, and Ohene-Brenya Bampoe.
As these leaders assume their roles, the focus remains on maintaining the integrity of sports journalism and advocating for broader support for diverse sporting disciplines across the nation.