Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to restoring the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to international standards, following a comprehensive inspection tour of the facility earlier today.
Once a proud host of major international fixtures, the stadium was barred from organizing CAF and FIFA-sanctioned matches in September last year due to its deteriorating condition. Speaking after the inspection, Hon. Adams expressed concern over the decline and underscored the urgency of revamping the iconic venue.
“We’ve seen the current state of the Baba Yara Stadium and identified what needs to be done,” he told reporters. “Throughout our inspection, we were already discussing possible solutions.”
The Minister assured the public that government, under the directive of former President John Dramani Mahama, is taking concrete steps to restore the stadium’s functionality and prestige.
“In line with President Mahama’s directive, we are committed to ensuring that all sporting activities at the Baba Yara Stadium resume as soon as possible,” he emphasized.
Highlighting the cultural and symbolic significance of the stadium, Hon. Adams described Baba Yara as the heartbeat of Ghanaian football.
“When it comes to football in Ghana, Baba Yara is one of the most cherished grounds. Players often refer to it as the ‘Mecca of Ghana Football.’ And if your Mecca is in poor condition, that’s deeply troubling. But we’re optimistic—this is not beyond repair. We are determined to bring the stadium back to the standard it deserves.”
A major motivation behind the inspection, according to the Minister, is to ensure that Ghanaian clubs Asante Kotoko and Bibiani Gold Stars can host their CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup matches at the stadium.
“The primary reason for my visit today is to push for Asante Kotoko and Bibiani Gold Stars to play their continental matches right here at Baba Yara. To make that happen, maintaining and upgrading this facility is absolutely crucial.”
Call for Corporate Support
Beyond government action, Hon. Adams issued a passionate call to corporate Ghana to partner in the stadium’s refurbishment. He outlined the commercial benefits for companies that choose to support the initiative.
“There are significant opportunities for corporate bodies that come on board,” he said. “With two top clubs set to represent Ghana on the continental stage, Baba Yara Stadium will command widespread attention. Sponsors could gain naming rights and establish a lasting legacy with this historic venue.”
He also hinted that key sections of the stadium, such as the stands and dressing rooms, could be branded in the names of supporting organizations, particularly those in mining, manufacturing, and other impactful industries.
Hon. Kofi Adams was joined on the inspection tour by Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene and senior officials from the National Sports Authority (NSA).
With renewed governmental focus and growing calls for private sector involvement, optimism is mounting that the Baba Yara Sports Stadium will soon be restored to its rightful status as Ghana’s premier football stronghold.
