The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to the development of sports in the country with the official launch of the National Baseball League at Koshen Park, Labone Senior High School in Accra.
Representing the Minister for Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, the Deputy Director of Research and Sports at the Ministry, Horen Kushiga, underscored the government’s dedication to building a robust sports sector.
He acknowledged funding as one of the key challenges but revealed that proactive steps have been taken to address the issue.
“One of the few challenges in the sports sector is funding, and we have taken initial steps to try and solve that problem. We are on the cusp of addressing this by securing cabinet approval to establish a Sports Fund that will create a resource base for all sports,” he said.
Kushiga assured stakeholders that the government remains fully invested in sports development. “The government and the Ministry of Youth and Sports are fully committed to developing sports for the benefit of all.”
The launch was spearheaded by the President of the Ghana Baseball and Softball Association (GBSA), Ernest Danso, who described the event as a “giant leap forward” for baseball in Ghana.
He emphasised that the newly established league is more than just a competition—it is a platform for talent discovery, youth empowerment, and national development.
“This league is not just about competition; it is a platform for talent discovery, a channel for growth, and a statement that Ghana is ready to take its place on the continental and global stage,” he stated.
Danso reflected on the grassroots origins of the sport in Ghana, acknowledging the dedication of early coaches and volunteers who nurtured baseball with limited resources and improvised equipment.
Through what he called “persistence, unwavering belief, and shared determination,” the sport has gained traction in schools and communities across the country.
“We believed in the values that baseball teaches—teamwork, discipline, patience, and opportunity.
“We are now building a sustainable ecosystem that will raise the level of play, attract investment, increase media interest, and open doors for the educational and athletic advancement of our youth,” he said.
He revealed the association’s plans to expand the league to include youth, women, and school divisions, build standard baseball fields across all regions, and pursue qualification for international tournaments.
Adding his voice to the event, Albert K. Frimpong, President of WBSC Africa and former head of the Ghana Baseball and Softball Federation, highlighted the discipline and life values that the sport instills in young people.
“This ball teaches discipline. Comport yourself at all times, and show respect on and off the field. Let us enjoy baseball and show the federation that their sacrifices are not in vain,” he urged.
Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) President Richard Akpokavie also graced the event and praised the initiative for its potential to positively impact the country’s youth.
“Sports have the power to make young people better human beings—for themselves, their families, and the country. Be the best of the best. Respect your body, your peers, and the game. And build friendships, because we are one people, one destiny,” Akpokavie said.
AM/KA
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