Hon. Edem Agbana Urges Serious Action on Neglected Sports Facilities

Ghana’s significant investments in world-class sports infrastructure ahead of major continental events risk going to waste due to poor maintenance, according to Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Hon. Edem Agbana. Speaking on the current state of facilities built for the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2008) and the 2023 All Africa Games, the lawmaker expressed deep concern over their rapid deterioration. He emphasized that these venues, which once symbolized national pride and regional development, now stand as painful reminders of unfulfilled potential.

Hon. Agbana highlighted the substantial financial resources channeled into constructing and upgrading these sports facilities with the hope of boosting youth development, tourism, and sports excellence in the Volta Region and beyond. However, years of neglect have led to decaying infrastructure, including damaged pitches, broken stands, and malfunctioning equipment. The MP stressed that without immediate intervention, the nation stands to lose both the economic and social returns expected from these multi-million-dollar projects.

The parliamentarian called on stakeholders, including government agencies, municipal authorities, and sports governing bodies, to prioritize proper management and regular maintenance protocols. “We must be serious about management and maintenance of these facilities,” Hon. Agbana declared, urging a shift from short-term event-driven thinking to sustainable long-term strategies. He proposed the establishment of dedicated maintenance funds and public-private partnerships to ensure the facilities remain functional for future generations and upcoming sporting events.

As #VoltaToday continues to champion development and accountability in the region, Hon. Edem Agbana’s remarks serve as a timely wake-up call. Residents and sports enthusiasts alike hope that this clarion call will translate into concrete actions, restoring these vital assets and positioning Volta as a hub for sporting excellence in Ghana.