Asantehene Calls for Broader Focus on Sports Beyond Football in Ghana

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has expressed concern over Ghana’s focus on football at the expense of other sporting disciplines. In a meeting with the newly appointed Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, at the Manhyia Palace on February 14, 2025, Otumfuo advised the Minister to prioritize sports like tennis, races, boxing, basketball, and arm-wrestling.

According to Otumfuo, Ghana has the talent to excel globally in these fields. “These days sports have been narrowed to football. In Ghana, all the focus is on football, but there are several others,” he said. Otumfuo reminisced about his school days, where he participated in high jump, races, and other sports during Inter-College competitions. “We always looked up to it because it was fun. Some of these talents earned scholarships to study in advanced countries.”

Otumfuo emphasized the importance of scouting young talents from the grassroots level, citing Ghana’s past success in global competitions. “Young talents were scouted from Interschool and intercommunity level football matches in our localities. At the time, Ghana was winning more medals at global competitions. Let’s bring that approach back.”

Minister Kofi Adams sought Otumfuo’s counsel and direction as he begins his Ministerial duties. “President Mahama has given me the mandate to head the Sports Ministry. I couldn’t just wake up and start. I need counsel and direction, especially as FIFA has restrained us from interfering so much in sports,” Adams said.

Otumfuo expressed confidence in Adams’ leadership, stating, “When President appointed you, I knew you were capable. I know you commit yourself to whatever you lay your hands on.”