NSA inaugurates Deen-led committee to boost sports funding

The National Sports Authority (NSA) has inaugurated a five-member Resource Mobilisation and Partnership Committee to drive a new financial strategy for Ghanaian sport. The committee is led by Chairman Samson Deen and Co-Chairman Yaw Ampofo Ankrah. Other members include Hajia Zenabu Sulemana, Alhaji Mutawakilu Iddrisu, and Mavis Ekua Enyamah Kwainoe, who also acts as the committee secretary.

Prof. Fred Awaah, Chairman of the NSA Governing Board, stated that traditional state funding is no longer sufficient to achieve the nation's goals for modern infrastructure, youth empowerment, and international athletic success. He noted that the committee's formation is a practical step in executing the NSA's Reset and Transformation Agenda. This move follows a resolution made by the NSA Governing Board during its second quarterly session on 12 June 2026.

Prof. Awaah instructed the committee to use its terms of reference as a guide for aggressive outreach to partners, ensuring long-term financial stability and transparent management of resources. He emphasized that the success of the group should be judged by the actual resources mobilised and the partnerships secured rather than the number of meetings held. He described the assignment as a national mission to create lasting impact for athletes and sporting institutions.

During the inauguration at the ESP Hotel in Accra on 14 August 2026, Samson Deen highlighted the importance of talent identification and grassroots involvement. He stated that the Constituency Games should function as a national movement for discovering talent. Prof. Awaah also commended the committee for securing the inauguration venue and logistical support at no cost to the NSA, describing the gesture as an example of the efficiency required for the Reset Agenda.

To support the new direction, Prof. Awaah called on international development agencies, corporate organisations, and development partners to assist the committee in building a sustainable financial foundation. He also addressed the media, stating that journalists should act as allies in maintaining accountability and transparency within the sports sector. The goal is to transform sports into a sector that generates economic growth and restores Ghana's competitive standing.