The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to transform Ghana’s sporting landscape, promising a fair distribution of resources and a move away from the long-standing emphasis on football.
Historically, Ghana’s national teams, apart from the Black Stars, have faced limited support, leading to stagnation in the development of other sports.
The NDC aims to address this imbalance and boost the overall development of the country’s sports sector, should it win the upcoming December elections.
Key points of the NDC sports policy include;
- Financial Support for Footballers: The party plans to increase financial support for footballers at all levels, including the Colts, Division One and Two, and the Ghana Premier League, by increasing their salaries and providing additional allowances.
- Facility Renovation: There will be immediate upgrades to pitches, tracks and other facilities at the national stadiums in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Cape Coast and Sekodi to meet FIFA standards.
- International Standard Stadia: The NDC intends to continue its policy of setting up state-of-the-art stadia in all regions across the country.
- Multi-Purpose Sports Facilities: New multi-purpose sports facilities will be constructed to encourage regional sporting events and inter-school competitions, enhancing talent development.
- Equitable investment in National Teams: Emphasis will be placed on equal investment in various national teams, including women’s football, para-sports, youth teams and lesser-known sports.
- Modern Sports University: NDC plans to upgrade the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Sports College into a modern sports university, offering education in sports science, sports medicine and sports management/administration across multiple campuses in Ghana.
- Sports Centers of Excellence: Establishment of Sports Centers of Excellence in the northern, middle and southern zones, in collaboration with universities and the private sector, to enhance sports training and development.
- Support for National Athletes: The party will provide consistent support to national athletes to compete internationally and develop careers after the Games, including pension schemes.
- Scholarships and Sports Academies: Scholarships will be offered to promising sports talents and sports academies will be established in partnership with the private sector.
- Support for Retired Sportspersons: Retired sports personalities will receive assistance in pursuing sports-related careers after their active sports life.
These were listed in their manifesto ahead of the 2024 elections, which the party is confident its leader, former president John Mahama, will secure victory.
