The Government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission, has commissioned a newly constructed AstroTurf in the Ahafo Region, creating new opportunities for youth development, sports promotion and community wellbeing in Kenyasi No. 1, Kenyasi No. 2 and Ntrotroso.

Speaking at the commissioning on behalf of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Deputy Minister, Hon.Dr. Yusif Sulemana described the facility as more than just sports infrastructure, saying it represented a promise kept by government and an investment in the future of the youth.

He noted that although the project was initiated by a previous administration, the current government decided to complete it in line with its commitment that inherited projects would not be abandoned.

The Deputy Minister said the project was the result of consultation and partnership among the Minerals Commission, the District Assembly, traditional authorities and residents of the beneficiary communities.

He stressed that communities must not merely be recipients of development projects but should actively participate in decisions that affect their lives, describing the approach as an important aspect of participatory development.

He also disclosed that the Minister had laid before Parliament a bill to amend the existing law to strengthen the benefits accruing to communities hosting mining activities.

Hon. Sulemana commended the paramount chiefs and people of Kenyasi No. 1, Kenyasi No. 2 and Ntrotroso for their cooperation, particularly for providing the land for the project.

He urged the communities to take ownership of the AstroTurf, protect the facility and use it to nurture young talents, promote healthy lifestyles and create opportunities for the next generation.

The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Isaac Tandoh, described the construction of the multipurpose sports complex as a testament to what could be achieved through collaboration among government institutions, traditional authorities, the private sector and local communities.

He urged the communities to take ownership of the facility, protect it and use it to nurture sporting talent, promote youth development and strengthen community unity. He noted that the facility ultimately belonged to the people and should serve generations to come.

On her part, the Ahafo Regional Minister, Hon. Charity Gardiner, said the commissioning of the multipurpose sports facility marked an important milestone in promoting sports development, youth empowerment and community wellbeing.

She called for transparent and accountable management structures involving the Regional Coordinating Council, the Assembly and other stakeholders to ensure its proper use, maintenance and protection.

She urged the youth, sports associations, community leaders and residents to take ownership of the facility and protect it as a valuable investment for present and future generations.

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