By Nana Kwame Bediako
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tarkwa Nsuaem, Benjamin Kesse, has announced that the local government has taken over the management of the TnA Stadium from the National Sports Authority (NSA).
This decision follows allegations of poor maintenance by the NSA, which had been responsible for the stadium since its commissioning. The takeover aims to ensure the stadium remains in optimal condition, particularly as the new Ghana Premier League season approaches.
The decision by the Tarkwa Nsuaem MCE comes amidst growing concerns over the state of sports facilities managed by the NSA. Kesse highlighted the deteriorating conditions of the TnA Stadium, citing dirty washrooms and non-functional aspects of the stadium as primary issues. “For the past one month, the washrooms are as dirty as you can think of. Most of the aspects of the stadium are not functioning,” Kesse remarked.
The National Sports Authority (NSA) has recently come under fire due to its handling of several key stadiums in Ghana. The Accra Sports Stadium, Baba Yara Stadium, and Cape Coast Stadium were all closed for maintenance following directives from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
These closures have prompted the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to seek alternative venues for the Black Stars’ next game, raising questions about the NSA’s capacity to maintain the nation’s sports infrastructure effectively.
By taking control of the TnA Stadium, the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal Assembly aims to set a new standard for sports facility management in the region. This move not only addresses immediate maintenance issues but also reflects a broader commitment to the development of sports and community engagement. The local government’s intervention is seen as a necessary step to preserve the stadium’s functionality and ensure it serves as a valuable resource for both athletes and fans.
The takeover of the TnA Stadium by the Tarkwa Nsuaem MCE could signal a shift in how sports facilities are managed in Ghana. It raises important questions about the role of local versus national authorities in maintaining sports infrastructure and the need for accountability and efficiency. As the new Ghana Premier League season kicks off, the eyes of the nation will be on Tarkwa Nsuaem to see if their bold approach can set a precedent for other municipalities facing similar challenges.
