The newly appointed Sports Minister, Kofi Iddie Adams, has been making waves even before being vetted and sworn in.
His primary focus on football, particularly the Black Stars and the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has raised concerns about his understanding of the broader sports landscape.
During his pre-appointment interviews, Mr Adams discussed his plans to make the Black Stars "Great Again" and reform the GFA.
While his enthusiasm for football is commendable, it's essential to recognise that sports encompass more than just football.
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To be fair, Mr Adams did express his love for boxing, stating that he loves the sport more than football. However, his actions and priorities will ultimately determine his commitment to promoting all sports disciplines.
The challenge ahead
Mr Adams' task is daunting, especially considering the President's expectation to make the Black Stars "Great Again”.
However, he must also recognise the need to supervise 40 sporting disciplines, including football. For decades, football has dominated Ghana's sports scene, often to the detriment of other disciplines.
Ironically, sports such as boxing and athletics have brought more glory and financial rewards to the country than football.
Neglect of other sporting disciplines
The country's leaders and citizens have historically neglected other sporting disciplines, focusing primarily on the Black Stars. Other football teams, such as the Black Queens, youth and divisional football, have been left to struggle.
The case for least financed sporting disciplines
Take tennis, for example, this sport provides a financial reward of at least $50,000 per tournament to professional players.
Imagine the impact on Ghanaian families, relatives, communities and society as a whole if we had five to 10 Ghanaian tennis players competing at the top level.
Currently, basic infrastructure for tennis is lacking, and talents have nowhere to train.
Boxing, another sport that has brought significant financial rewards and national prestige, faces similar challenges.
Reviving forgotten sports
Sports such as table tennis, volleyball and handball, which were once national pastimes, are now almost non-existent.
What will Mr Adams do to revive these sports?
The economic potential of sports
Mr Adams must recognise that sport is no longer just a recreational activity but a significant business opportunity.
When invested in and supported with proper infrastructure, sports can generate revenue exceeding the national GDP. Only time will tell if Mr Adams will rise to the challenge and leave a lasting legacy in Ghana's sports history.
A call to action
I urge Mr Adams to refocus his attention on the least financed sporting disciplines.
This will not only create jobs for unemployed youth but also generate revenue and promote a healthy society. Attending sports events, like the amateur boxing league launch, is a positive step.
However, Mr Adams must go beyond that and partner corporate agencies to finance sports infrastructure, experts, coaches and competitions.
Conclusion
Mr Adams' appointment as Sports Minister is welcome, but he must demonstrate his commitment to promoting all sports disciplines, not just football.
The sports fraternity is watching, and the country expects tangible results. As Mr Adams navigates the complex world of sports administration, he must remember that sport is not just about football.
It's about creating opportunities, promoting healthy lifestyles and driving economic growth.
The success of Mr Adams' tenure will depend on his ability to balance the needs of various sporting disciplines, invest in infrastructure and promote sports as a viable business opportunity.
Only time will tell if Mr Adams will rise to the challenge and leave a lasting legacy in Ghana's sports history.