By Kwame Bediako
Following a thorough inspection of the Baba Yara Sports Stadium and the stalled Nyinahin Youth Resource Centre, Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, engaged with Ashanti King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to discuss urgent rehabilitation plans for these vital sports facilities. The meeting at Manhyia Palace highlighted the critical need to restore the iconic Baba Yara Stadium to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards ahead of upcoming continental matches, while also addressing the prolonged halt in construction at Nyinahin’s multi-sport complex.
Hon. Adams, accompanied by Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene and senior ministry officials, briefed the Ashanti monarch on the stadium’s immediate requirements, including pitch re-grassing, floodlight repairs and spectator area refurbishments. He also outlined the challenges facing the Nyinahin Youth Resource Centre, a 5,000-seat sports hub that has remained incomplete since the contractor abandoned the site in November 2024. The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to fast-tracking these projects to restore Ghana’s sporting infrastructure.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II lauded the hands-on approach of the Sports Ministry and pledged to spearhead a fundraising campaign among Ashanti’s major mining companies. The King’s involvement signals a strong partnership between traditional leadership and government to mobilize resources and ensure the timely completion of both facilities. He requested detailed cost estimates from the Ministry to facilitate immediate action and resource allocation.
This meeting reflects a broader national effort by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation to revive key sports venues across Ghana. The restoration of Baba Yara Stadium and the completion of the Nyinahin Youth Resource Centre are expected to reinvigorate community pride, enhance Ghana’s capacity to host elite competitions and provide modern facilities for athletes and fans.
