Ghana's first female Olympic weightlifter, Alberta Boatema Amponsah, has died at the age of 32. Her death was announced in a joint statement by the Ghana Olympians Association, Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), and the GOC Athletes' Commission on Sunday, November 8. Amponsah competed at the 2012 London Olympic Games, representing Ghana in the women's over-75kg weightlifting category.
Born in Accra on November 3, 1994, Amponsah made history at the age of 17 when she represented Ghana at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. She recorded 73kg in the snatch and 101kg in the clean and jerk for a combined total of 174kg, placing her 13th among 14 competitors. Her performance was a notable achievement, especially considering she secured her place at the Games through a wildcard entry.
Amponsah's international career began earlier, with her representing Ghana at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India, at just 15 years old. She competed in the women's 75kg category, demonstrating her talent and potential in the sport from a young age. After her weightlifting career, Amponsah remained active in sports, taking part in and officiating at armwrestling competitions in Ghana.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Amponsah served as an executive member of the reconstituted GOC Athletes' Commission. She worked alongside fellow Olympians, including chairman John Ampomah, Abeku Jackson, Gemma Acheampong, Emmanuel Dasor, Abdul Wahid Omar, and Kaya Forson. This role allowed her to contribute to the development of athletics in Ghana and support her fellow athletes.
The Ghana Olympians Association, Ghana Olympic Committee, and GOC Athletes' Commission described Amponsah as a dedicated servant of her fellow Olympians and athletes. They expressed their deep sorrow at her passing, and the statement concluded with a message of condolence, wishing her soul to rest in peace. No cause of death has been disclosed by her family or the Olympic bodies.
Amponsah's legacy as a trailblazer for women's weightlifting in Ghana will be remembered for years to come. As the country's first female Olympic weightlifter, she paved the way for future generations of athletes. Her achievements in the sport, both nationally and internationally, have left a lasting impact on the Ghanaian athletic community.
The sports community in Ghana and beyond is mourning the loss of Alberta Boatema Amponsah, a talented and dedicated athlete who made significant contributions to the sport of weightlifting. Her passing serves as a reminder of the transience of life and the importance of cherishing the memories and achievements of those who have made a positive impact on their respective fields.
Key points
- Alberta Boatema Amponsah, Ghana's first female Olympic weightlifter, has died at the age of 32.
- Amponsah competed at the 2012 London Olympic Games, representing Ghana in the women's over-75kg weightlifting category.
- She served as an executive member of the reconstituted GOC Athletes' Commission, working alongside fellow Olympians.
