Ghana’s Next Sports Minister: The Debate Begins
As Ghana prepares for a new government in January 2025, speculation is rife about who will be appointed as the next Sports Minister.
Among the notable figures being considered, HRH Kofi Ashiefie Papanyira I, popular known as Ben Nunoo Mensah, President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), has emerged as the top contender for the position.
With his wealth of experience in sports management and administration, Mensah is widely regarded as one of the most qualified individuals for the position. His impressive track record in promoting sports development and excellence in Ghana makes him an ideal candidate to revitalize the country’s sports landscape.
Mensah’s credentials are impeccable. As President of the GOC, he has worked tirelessly to promote Ghanaian sports and athletes, both locally and internationally. His leadership has resulted in significant growth and development of sports in Ghana, including the country’s participation in several international competitions.
In addition to his experience in sports management, Mensah is also a successful businessman and CEO of Directline Risk Consult and Barari DV Ghana Ltd. His business acumen and leadership skills make him an attractive candidate for the position of Sports Minister.
While other notable figures, such as Samson Deen, President of the African Paralympic Committee, and Herbert Amponsah Mensah, President of World Rugby’s African association, Rugby Africa, are also being considered for the position, Mensah’s unique blend of sports management experience, business acumen, and leadership skills make him the standout candidate.
Hon. Wisdom Kobena Woyome, MP for South Tongu Constituency, who has served on various committees, including the Youth, Sports and Culture Committee, is also a notable figure in Ghanaian sports. However, Mensah’s experience and credentials in sports management and administration make him a more suitable candidate for the position of Sports Minister.
As Ghana seeks to revitalize its sports landscape, Ben Nunoo Mensah’s appointment as Sports Minister would be a significant step in the right direction. His leadership and vision would help to promote sports development, excellence, and inclusivity in Ghana.
According to our checks, the next Ghana sports under JM needs a calm, humble and focused deliverer not a chaotic and distractive figure.
Some of the characteristics the new sports minister must possess which includes;
1. Already on top of sports issue, not coming to learn on the job.
2. Not over partisan.
3. Not divisive but with deep love for sports and the athletes.
4. Be welcome by majority of the stakeholders especially football people.
5. Humble, calm, selfless, focused, not a chaotic or distractive person.
6. Have a calming effect on our sports structure.
7. Have a deep understanding of international sports and how it works.
8. Financially sound so can’t easily be corrupted.
9. Business minded with international links.
10. An achiever with track record to show.
The Ghanaian sports fraternity eagerly awaits the announcement of the new Sports Minister. With Ben Nunoo Mensah’s impressive credentials and experience, he is undoubtedly the leading candidate for the position.
