The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, has reiterated government’s firm commitment to restoring the Essipong Sports Stadium into a fully functional and commercially viable national asset. He gave the assurance during an inspection tour of the stadium with the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.
Constructed for the 2008 African Cup of Nations, the 20,000-capacity facility has gone nearly two decades without any significant rehabilitation. The Minister’s visit exposed extensive deterioration, including damaged roofing, broken seating, non-functional washrooms, and critical service areas in disrepair. The stadium has reportedly been without electricity for more than three years, further compounding the decline.
“Essipong is not just a Western Region issue; this is a national infrastructure that must be brought back to life,” Hon. Adams emphasised.” We are committed to accelerating works here to ensure this stadium once again serves the people of Ghana; not only for sport but for wider commercial and community use.”
Ongoing rehabilitation works under Phases I and II cover reroofing with anti-rust materials, replacement of spectator seats, refurbishment of sanitary facilities, lighting upgrades, and installation of a new scoreboard. Plans also include improved ventilation and the installation of new fittings for the sunglasses and corporate spaces.
While commending the quality of work delivered so far, the Minister expressed concern over the slow pace of progress and called for renewed urgency from all stakeholders.
The delegation also noted worrying levels of encroachment on parts of the stadium land by private developers. Hon. Adams urged the Western Regional Coordinating Council and traditional leaders to take swift action to protect the state property from further encroachment.
Additional works are expected to be added to the current rehabilitation scope, including enhancements to the playing pitch, security installations, dressing rooms, hostels, and public address systems to meet modern stadium standards and increase its event-hosting capacity.
Hon. Adams further underscored the importance of sustainable financing in maintaining sports infrastructure across the country. He encouraged the corporate community and the media to support the establishment of a National Sports Development Fund to ensure long-term care for facilities like Essipong.
The Minister concluded with a reassurance of government’s determination to bring the stadium back to its optimal state, stating that urgent steps will be taken to restore Essipong to its rightful place as a premier sporting facility.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Monica Bukari
