By Theophilus Sampah
At a defining moment when belief, purpose, and national pride are paramount, the leadership of Ghana’s Olympic movement has arrived in Luanda with a clear mission: to inspire, motivate, and stand firmly behind Team Ghana at the ongoing 4th Africa Youth Games, Angola 2025.
Led by the President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), Lawyer Richard Akpokavi, alongside Secretary-General Lawyer Mohammed Muniru Kassim, the high powered delegation’s presence has injected fresh energy into Ghana’s campaign. This is more than a courtesy visit, it is a bold statement of commitment to youth development, athlete welfare, and sustained sporting excellence.
Ghana is proudly competing in 16 sporting disciplines, highlighting the nation’s growing depth across the sporting spectrum. These include Athletics, Badminton, Basketball 3×3, Beach Volleyball, Boxing, Canoeing, Cycling, Fencing, Golf, Judo, Karate-Do, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Taekwondo, and Weightlifting.
The national contingent comprises 40 athletes, 21 coaches, and 11 officials, all united by a common goal: to represent Ghana with pride and lay the foundation for future international success.
Throughout their stay, President Akpokavi and his leadership team have been highly visible, moving from training camps to competition venues, engaging athletes and technical officials in meaningful interactions. Living up to his hallmark philosophy of “Athletes First,” the GOC President has taken time to connect personally with athletes, listening to their concerns, affirming their dreams, and reinforcing the belief that they matter to the nation.
These moments simple conversations, reassuring words, and shared determination have resonated deeply with the young athletes, boosting morale and sharpening focus as competition intensifies.
On the operational front, the Ghana contingent has benefited from strong and efficient leadership on the ground. Under the guidance of Chef de Mission Kamal Sulley, supported by Administrator Yaw Boakye Yiadom, Team Ghana’s logistics and coordination have been widely commended. From day one, Ghanaian officials have maintained a proactive presence at all competition venues, allowing athletes to concentrate fully on performance.
This coordinated effort is further strengthened by the dedication of key GOC officials including Treasurer Evans Yeboah, Team Manager Nana Adu Mankata, Operations Manager Shaaban Mohammed, and President of the Ghana Fencing Association, Mohammed Mahadi, whose behind the scenes work continues to keep Ghana’s campaign on course.
The impact is already evident. *Team Ghana has secured 13 medals; gold, silver, and bronze a reflection of talent, preparation, and collective belief. Yet beyond the medal count, the broader objective remains unmistakable: nurturing confident, disciplined, and inspired athletes for the future.
As the Africa Youth Games progress, the presence of the GOC leadership in Luanda sends a powerful message, that youth sports development is a shared national responsibility. With vision, presence, and purpose, Ghana is not only chasing medals, but deliberately shaping the champions of tomorrow.
