The President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Ghana, Samson Deen, has called for an end to divisions within the sports sector, warning that continued infighting could undermine investment and development. He made the appeal in a statement on his Facebook page and in remarks at a Team Ghana sponsorship event. Mr. Deen expressed concern over increasing political tensions within sports administration, which he believes are discouraging sponsors and creating an environment that threatens the growth of the sector.
Mr. Deen questioned how corporate organisations could be expected to invest in sports when the sector is characterised by public disputes and uncertainty. He stated that it is not possible for sponsors to invest in an environment marked by confusion. The NPC President called for a broad-based forum involving political leaders, sports administrators, and other industry stakeholders to discuss challenges confronting Ghanaian sports and chart a common path forward.
According to Mr. Deen, changes in government should not become opportunities for attacks on sports officials perceived to be aligned with previous administrations. He stressed that such practices only deepen divisions and hinder progress. Mr. Deen urged journalists and commentators to verify information before publishing allegations against sports administrators, noting that persistent public attacks and controversies are damaging the image of the sector and reducing its attractiveness to potential investors.
The NPC President challenged sports leaders to match calls for reform with practical action, urging federations and associations to collaborate and strengthen their institutions. He encouraged sports bodies to resolve disagreements internally and present a united front to build greater confidence among stakeholders and sponsors. Mr. Deen also suggested that lessons must be drawn from previous challenges surrounding major international competitions.
Mr. Deen touched on funding and governance, saying that past inquiries and discussions into the management of sports should have contributed to stronger systems and improved administration. He also questioned whether current funding levels being discussed would be sufficient to address the country’s stadium rehabilitation needs. The NPC President called for increased investment in sports facilities nationwide and greater efforts to encourage children and young people to participate in sporting activities.
The negative atmosphere surrounding sports administration could discourage young athletes and their families from embracing sports as a pathway for development and excellence, Mr. Deen warned. He further reiterated his intention to retire from sports administration in 2028, citing frustrations over what he described as persistent acts of sabotage and blackmail within the sector. According to him, other experienced sports administrators could also be discouraged from serving if the environment does not improve.
Mr. Deen said the proposed stakeholders’ forum would provide an opportunity for constructive dialogue aimed at restoring confidence, attracting investment, and promoting the long-term development of Ghanaian sport. The forum is expected to bring together political leaders, sports administrators, and other industry stakeholders to address the challenges facing the sector. Key issues to be discussed include the need for increased investment in sports facilities and the importance of collaboration among sports bodies.
Key points
- Political divisions and infighting are undermining sports development in Ghana, discouraging sponsors and threatening growth.
- The National Paralympic Committee President, Samson Deen, has called for a broad-based forum to discuss challenges confronting Ghanaian sports.
- Mr. Deen has also urged sports leaders to match calls for reform with practical action and encouraged sports bodies to resolve disagreements internally.
