The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been fun and merrymaking for many people, but for others, like the National Sports Authority (NSA) of Ghana, it is business as usual, as there is no dull moment in their desire and ambition to offer the best of their capabilities to the nation.
Regional Sports Directors of Ashanti, Central, and Western, who were at the FIFA World Cup, visited some sports institutions and facilities in the States.
The NSA regional directors completed the World Cup stadia and allied sports facilities tour in Philadelphia in grand style with positive comments and aspirations for their respective regions.
They also observed facilities at educational institutions.
Nana Gyaamah Dankwah of the Ashanti region, who has been with the NSA for 19 years, said it is time to do things the American way by learning how they produce champions from the source. She suggested getting lands specially allocated for sports in communities since sports are a social intervention.”We need to invest more into sports because the rewards are enormous,” she expressed.
Madam Joyce Datsa of the Central region noted that Americans take sports seriously and give attention to support, sanitation, security, and other services in various sports disciplines.
The Western Regional director, Mr. Cephas Fleming, said he has seen and learnt a lot. He believes it can be done in Ghana with good investment and maintenance.
According to Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Director General of the National Sports Authority, who is supervising football as one of the disciplines under his jurisdiction, the FIFA World Cup offers multiple opportunities, and smart people and countries will chance upon it to advance.
He commended the Black Stars for making it to the knockout stage and prayed they qualify to the best 16 and beyond.
He also hailed the few supporters and media from Ghana for their wonderful integration with the Ghanaian Afro Americans in the US.
The Black Stars have been very attractive, drawing thousands of fans from their homes to the stadium.
Ghana faces Colombia in the Round of 32 clash in Kansas City on Friday.
By Sammy Heywood Okine
