Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), has restated the Authority’s commitment to extend sustained support to Ghana’s national armwrestling team, Golden Arms following recent achievements.

The team once again showed their dominance on the continent after securing 55 medals at the just-ended Africa Armwrestling Championship in Abuja.

Ghana's successes, backed by corporate support, saw the delegation of Ghana Armwrestling Federation pay a courtesy call on the NHIA Executive Management in Accra to convey their gratitude for the Authority’s support ahead of the continental championship.

Addressing the delegation, Dr. Bampoe praised the team’s accomplishments, calling them a source of national pride after an impressive medal haul. He reflected on the 2023 Africa Games, where the team’s outstanding performance eclipsed the rest of Africa and drew nationwide admiration.

The Chief Executive Officer noted that, in line with its support for corporate Ghana, the NHIA is committed to investing in armwrestling to advance the GAF’s mission of making armwrestling a leading sport in the country.

“Everybody loves a winning team. We are proud to be associated with your success. So long as you continue to deliver, we will continue to support,” he said.

Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, stated that the NHIA’s support greatly lifted the team’s morale during the championship, helping them secure 26 gold, 20 silver, and 9 bronze medals.

This latest feat brings the team’s overall tally to 405 medals, with approximately 67 per cent of the medals being gold.

The team announced their upcoming participation in the World Armwrestling Championship in Bulgaria from September 10 to 22, 2025, and also revealed that Ghana will host the 2027 African Armwrestling Championship.

Dr. Senanu Djokoto, NHIA’s Deputy Chief Executive for Operations, lauded the team’s leadership and performance, reaffirming the Authority’s readiness to deepen the partnership.

Present at the meeting was Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, Vice President, Ghana Armwrestling Federation, Mr. Husseini Akueteh Addy and Nii Otoo Larkyne.

As a gesture of appreciation, the team presented their medals to the NHIA Executive Management and gifted them an official team jersey.

Source : www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) on Monday laid wreath at the Jubilee House to honor the memory of the compatriots who tragically lost their lives in an incident at Adansi in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The wreaths, representing the GOC, the Commonwealth Games Association of Ghana, and the entire sporting fraternity.

The GOC President, Mr. Richard Akpokavie remarked that "The Ghana Olympic Committee, representing all national federations, athletes, coaches, and officials in sports, and has come to pay tribute to these gallant men who died in the service of our country."

He revealed that the late Omane Boamah was scheduled as a baton bearer for the King's Baton Relay which has been put on hold.

He added, "We remember them for their service to the nation, and it's fitting that we come here to pay our respects. As sports people, we believe in sacrifice for our country, and we're committed to instilling this value in our athletes, officials, and coaches. May God remember them for their service and rest their souls in peace."

The ceremony was attended by top officials of the GOC, including President Richard Akpokavie, 1st Vice President Mawuko Afadzinu, 2nd Vice President Frederick Otu Lartey, Secretary General Muniru Kassim Mohammed, Deputy Secretary General Bawah Fuseini, and board members Rafatu Inusah, Delphina Quaye, George Lamptey, George Tettey Lamptey, Kamal Sulley, Richmond Quarcoo, and Nathaniel Johnson.

Other notable attendees included Professor Francis Dodoo, Former GOC President; Charles Osei Asibey, Communications Director, GOC; and Christopher Essilfie, President for Modern Pentathlon.

Source GOC Communications

The Ghana Immigration Service and Ghana Prisons Service in separate ceremonies have welcomed officers of both security institutions who recently returned from a triumphant tour of the African Armwrestling Championship in Abuja, Nigeria, as African Champions dominating in their various categories.

The Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Patience Baffoe Bonnie, and the leadership Prisons Service, were present to congratulate the champions Daniel Acquah (4 Gold Medals), Mabel Yeboah (4 Gold Medals) and Henry Otoo (2 Silver, 2 Bronze) on their impressive performances. The champions presented their medals to the Director-General, and they shared their experiences and insights with the top officials.

During the meeting, the Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Mrs. Baffoe Bonnie, expressed her excitement about the potential benefits of sports for inmates.

She noted that sports can play a significant role in rehabilitation and pledged to support the development of armwrestling within the prisons service.

In a related development, the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service,

CGI Samuel Basintale who was fascinated by the performances of Edward Yamoah Asamoah (2 Gold Medals), Blessed Abeka Nunoo (1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze), Godwin Sackey (1 Gold, 1 Silver) and referee Nii Otoo Larkyne, also echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of sports in promoting physical fitness and teamwork among personnel. Mr. Basintale promised to provide support for the development of armwrestling within the service, including training facilities, equipment, and sponsorship.

The African Armwrestling Champions from the security services who won a total of 20 medals out of Ghana’s 55 medal haul, were thrilled by the support and enthusiasm shown by the Ghana Immigration Service and Ghana Prisons Service. They expressed their gratitude and promised to continue promoting the sport and inspiring others to take up armwrestling.

Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President for Ghana Armwrestling Federation was thrilled by the promise and continuous collaborations and support for the development of armwrestling in Ghana by the security services. “We’re motivated and inspired, knowing that we have the backing of these two major security agencies in the country.

Source : www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

Ghana’s sole representative at the WBC Grand Prix quarter finals is Alternate Middle weight boxer Shakul Samed. He is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia with with his trainer, Elvis Robertson for the Riyadh Season WBC Boxing Grand Prix Quarterfinals on August 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. AST (12pm GTM).

The ‘Dobia’ as Shakul is known is back after a successful protest of the controversial referee stoppage in the first phase,

Shakul "The Sharp Shooter" Samed is back to the phase 2 of the WBC Grand Prix for the final eliminator against Australia's Jude Grant for alternate boxer for Phase 3, the Semi Final and then to the ultimate final.

Before departing, Coach Elvis was optimistic of winning to get his ward in the top ranks of the Boxing Ghana Best 10 Pound for Pound.

He said those on top are fake as he is coming with the real champ.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The Greater Accra and Eastern Regions are selecting representatives for the National Functional Fitness Event scheduled for December.

Last August 9 saw the selection process in motion as eight females and six males including technical officials and coaches were taken through drills at the Idrowhyt Events Centre in Accra in preparations for the up upcoming finals later in the year.

The drills which included running jumping jacks, press ups, push ups, mountain climbing, lunges and other exercises were led by Charles Owusu Ansah, President of Functional Sports League Ghana (FSLG).

He urged the trainees to maintain discipline, determination, desire and work hard to build their confidence. strength, stamina and speed to gain selection into the final. He said the selection will continue until the right candidates are selected.

Some of the participants who enjoyed the exciting fitness programme said their aim is to have a feel of sports and represented Ghana at the international level.

The winners will get the opportunity to participate in at an international championship in Egypt.

Functional Fitness is a type of exercise that focuses on training your body for the movements you perform in everyday life. It emphasizes using multiple muscle groups together to improve your ability to perform daily tasks like lifting, squatting, pushing, pulling, and twisting. This approach contrasts with traditional weight training that may isolate specific muscles.

By Sammy Heywood Okine                                   

The Ghana Boxing fraternity, Friends of Boxing (FOB) are very much touched, griefed and saddened as we join the President of the Republic of Ghana, HE John Dramani Mahama and the people to mourn the tragic death of eight gallant distinguished Ghanaians; two ministers and six others including three military officers involved in the military helicopter crash in Sikaman Forest, Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region.

The entire Ghana Boxing fraternity and Friends of Boxing are shocked and surprised, however we take consolation that the good Almighty Creator is the one who knows best and he alone gives, so he alone takes what belongs to him.

The boxing fraternity is saddened and wish to send our condolences to the people of Ghana especially the National Democratic Congress, the Cabinet, Parliament and relatives and families of the departed souls.

We believe that this is a moment of coming together in unity and love, shunning all political differences and showing affection.

No one knows how he or she is going to die, but going out to fight galamsey in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region, which is destroying our national resources; water, farm lands and entire environment is so sad.

Dr Edward Omane Boamah - Minister for Defence who was a former deputy Minister of Youth & Sports, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed - Minister for Environment, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed - Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator,  ⁠Dr Samuel Sarpong - Vice Chairman, NDC, Mr Samuel Aboagye - Former Parliamentary candidate, Squadron leader Peter, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo were on a national duty and mission to save humanity,  but they met their untimely death on Wednesday August 6, 2025.

As concerned citizens and patriots, we are so much touched, and even lost of words to describe the whole scenario because losing eight strong fine gentlemen who were on a good course is so sad.

Indeed we are very very sad. The Good Lord Almighty knows best, so we just pray and console the families.

May the Holy Spirit comfort us, may Your Perfect Peace be with us.

By Sammy Heywood Okine, Founder, Friends of Boxing, President, Ghana Boxing Writers Association and member, Ghana Boxing Authority Communications Committee, Former Communications Director, Ghana Olympic Committee, Associate Editor, BoxingGhana.com, Editor Ultimatesportsghana, Ghana Country Director African Sports Media Network.

The President of Ghana Tug of War Association (GHATOWA),  Mr. Emmanuel Olla Williams aka 'Gas Man' has sent a message of condolence to the President of Ghana,  HE. John Dramani Mahama, the people of Ghana and the families and loved ones who have been touched by the tragic helicoter accident which caused the perishing of eight gallant public servants on duty to fight galamsey.

He said the Association is deeply touched and confused on the circumstances and prays only the Almighty will guide and protect the nation to avoid such occurrences.

He wished the families and loved ones of the departed well and encouragement to be strong in this trying moments.

"As the body in charge of Tug of War in Ghana, we are also sad and wish the President more strength, wisdom and knowledge to steer the nation.

The confirmed dead are Dr Edward Omane Boamah - Minister for Defence, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed - Minister for Environment, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed - Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr Samuel Sarpong - Vice Chairman, NDC, Mr Samuel Aboagye - Former Parliamentary candidate, Squadron leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo who were on a military helicopter that crashed in the Ashanti Region.

Mr. Williams who is CEO of Dreamland Sports Plus as well as One On One Foundation said galamsey operators must be ashamed and the fight against illegal mining must continue, even more intensive with severe punishment to those involved.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The African Women In Sports Association (AWISA) with its head office in Namibia has sent a statement of condolence to the President of Ghana HE John Dramani Mahama and Ghanaians.

The statement which was signed by Carol Davis, Executive Director and Co Founder said they join in prayer for the purposeful repose of their souls and for strength and comfort to be granted to the families and the nation during this trying time of mourning.

Mrs. Joyce Mahama of Ghana who is the current President of AWISA added that it is sad, however the Good Lord Almighty knows best and she prayed that lessons would be learnt and the people of Ghana will unite through this incident.

“We pray that never again shall we experience such tragedy” she expressed.

Dr Edward Omane Boamah - Minister for Defence, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed - Minister for Environment, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed - Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr Samuel Sarpong - Vice Chairman, NDC, Mr Samuel Aboagye - Former Parliamentary candidate, Squadron leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo were on the military helicopter that crashed in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday.

By Sammy Heywood Okine                  

Local footballers featuring in the Ghana Men's Premiership and Malta Guinness Women's League have commended betPawa and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for initiating the Locker Room Bonus as it cushions them immensely.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025/ 2026 package renewal and contract signing at the Best Western Premier Hotel in Accra,

Beauty Abena Julius of Faith Ladies, representing the players said the wonderful incentive of 400ghc per match motivates them to give off their best to win.

She said the Locker Room Bonus energies them display skills that they never thought of and it also reduces financial burden on their management.

The Secretary General of the GFA, Prosper Harrison Addo revealed that the betPawa Locker Room Bonus is an idea originated from Ghana.

"This unique technical package was prepared and 'cooked' here in Ghana is easily accessed by players, it is now spreading to other parts of Africa" he disclosed.

He noted that the GFA believes in the player first agenda, and they are obliged to make players feel happy, safe and willing to offer their best to the fans.

"We continue to push for better things for Ghana and African football as Kurt Okraku is CAF 2nd Vice President.

betPawa has constructed a FIFA approved astro turf at our technical centre at Prampram, and we have used it for some international matches. However we want stands for fans and dressing rooms to add up" he expressed.

Borah Omary Ndanyungu, Head of Local Marketing and CSR at betPawa with operations in 17 African countries said both male and female players get the same amount, which is aside their club winning bonuses. "We have achieved our goal because the players are giving positive testimonies" she said.

Nii Armah Ashong-Katai, Regional Manager CSR and Sports Development for West and Southern Africa revealed that since 2022, betPawa has been paying 20 players and 3 officials of the clubs as a commitment to help the players.

Larry Abbey, a club Administrator of Jonina Ladies remarked that the Locker Room Bonus takes away pressure from clubs finances, and they really appreciate.

betPawa and GFA representatives signed the agreement as a presentation of a dummy cheque for $380, 843 to the FA, climaxing  another effort to support local football.

By Sammy Heywood Okine