By: Isaac Tetteh
Richard Akpokavie has officially accepted his role as the new President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), vowing to lead with dedication, excellence, and respect.
In his inaugural address, he emphasized the importance of unity among federation officials and the need to uphold the core Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship, which he believes are essential for promoting sports, culture, and education in Ghana.
Akpokavie highlighted the significance of maintaining the Olympic brand’s integrity and fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect. He stressed that Ghana must present a consolidated front to gain respect and support from the Ghanaian public and corporate entities, especially for funding sports activities.
He called for unity among federations, warning that ongoing disputes and court actions are hindering progress and must be resolved through structured dispute resolution mechanisms.
The new President outlined plans to improve dispute management within Ghana sports by encouraging federations to incorporate alternative dispute resolution (ADR) systems into their statutes.
He also proposed establishing an ADR system at the GOC level, enabling federations and stakeholders to seek redress without resorting to traditional courts, which he believes will foster quicker and more harmonious resolutions.
Akpokavie announced upcoming meetings with federation presidents over the next few weeks to chart a strategic plan for the next four years. These discussions will focus on key issues such as funding, athlete welfare, women empowerment, and increasing female representation in leadership roles.
He stressed that athlete voices must be heard at all levels, including the executive board, and committed to building capacity for women in sports leadership.
Concluding his address, Akpokavie expressed gratitude for the support received and reaffirmed his commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders, including ANOCA, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, and the National Sports Authority.
He emphasized that Ghana’s sports future depends on teamwork, dedication, and a shared vision to advance the country’s sporting excellence.
