Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Charles Amofa has disclosed that the National Sports Authority (NSA) are making an effort to get pitch covers to safeguard various stadia in the country.
His comment comes following recent public backlash over the NSA’s decision to rent out the Baba Yara Sports Stadium for a church event, which has reportedly led to damage to the pitch.
Currently, the Baba Yara Sports Stadium is Ghana’s only CAF-approved venue for international competitions.
“The truth of the matter is that the facility is big. Let’s take Accra Sports Stadium for instance all the associations like Boxing, handball, volleyball, taekwondo, tennis and others use the facility for their activities. Their usage makes us get structural effects and loss.
“All the sporting disciplines can use this facility but what’s worrisome is the resources we need to maintain it has become our challenge. Discussions are ongoing on how to get dedicated funds for the maintenance of the facility” he said.
“In regards to pitch covering, NSA currently are in discussions with three different companies to get good pitch covers not just temporary ones but rather durable ones which even if there is a car show won’t affect the grass on the pitch.
“These shows generate a little income for us to maintain the pitch. I’m making a promise to Ghanaians that within a short period, we will get pitch covers which will safeguard our pitches,” he added.
The Black Stars are set to face Angola in an upcoming African qualifier next month, while Ghanaian clubs Samartex and Nsoatreman are scheduled to compete in CAF Inter-club competitions.
Source: footballghana.com
