Story By: Ahashie Judeliver Eli
Charles Amofa, the Communications Director for the Ministry of Youth and Sports, has addressed concerns surrounding boxer Samuel Takyi’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic boxing qualifiers.
He confirmed exclusively to Happy FM that the talented young boxer will travel with the team to represent Ghana in the qualifiers to take place in Senegal.
Charles Amofa further clarified that Takyi has already received $10,000 of the $20,000 promised to him by President Akufo-Addo following his remarkable bronze medal win at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021.
According to Amofa, the remaining $10,000 will be disbursed to the 22-year-old boxer once he presents a “good personal development plan.”
This announcement comes in response to reports suggesting that Takyi was hesitant to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifying event in Dakar unless he received the promised $20,000 and an Olympic scholarship.
Takyi’s historic achievement in Tokyo ended Ghana’s 29-year Olympic medal drought, earning him recognition and support from the government.
President Akufo-Addo had pledged a car, $10,000 in cash, and an additional $20,000 to fund his future career development.
The Sports Ministry confirmed that Takyi already received the $10,000 in cash and a Nissan Sunny saloon car valued at $20,000 on November 18, 2021.
Additionally, he withdrew $10,000 on December 16, 2022, and another $5,000 on July 27, 2023, which he claimed was intended to prepare him for the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers.
The Ministry emphasized that out of the $20,000 allocated for Takyi’s personal development, a remaining balance of $10,000 is awaiting disbursement once he presents a suitable personal development plan.
Amidst these financial discussions, the Ministry underlined that Samuel Takyi remains an integral member of the Black Bombers team, which is diligently preparing for the Olympic qualifiers scheduled to take place in Dakar, Senegal, from September 9 to 15, 2023.
Black Bombers coach Ofori Asare is currently overseeing a camp with 16 boxers, including UK-based Seth Gyimah, known as Freezy McBones.
Out of these, 12 will be selected to represent Ghana in the qualifiers, with hopes of securing qualification in five weight divisions.
The Ministry’s reassurance regarding Takyi’s participation aims to quell any uncertainties and ensure Ghana’s strong presence at the Paris 2024 Olympics.