The National Sports Authority (NSA) has confirmed that the Baba Yara Sports Stadium is 70% prepared to host Ghana’s crucial match against Sudan in October for matchday 3 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers. The update was shared during the NSA’s appearance before the Parliamentary Select Committee for Youth, Sports, and Culture on Wednesday, September 25, where they discussed several pressing issues.
This appearance was part of an ongoing investigation into the recent decline in Ghana’s sports performance, and it provided the NSA with the opportunity to address public concerns.
One of the most talked-about issues was the criticism regarding the NSA’s practice of renting the stadium for non-sporting events, including church services. The public has expressed concerns over the impact of these events on the pitch’s condition, but the NSA defended its decision, emphasizing that the revenue generated from such rentals is essential for stadium maintenance.
Seth Panwum, the Board Chairman of the NSA, explained that the pitch is currently undergoing significant renovations. He assured the committee that work is progressing at a good pace and could be completed before the scheduled match against Sudan.
However, he clarified that the final assessment of the pitch’s readiness would be made by officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). He noted that the NSA is actively engaging with CAF to ensure that the stadium meets their standards in time for the match.
Panwum also addressed the financial challenges facing the NSA, particularly in terms of maintaining the stadium. He stressed that additional funding is needed to ensure the long-term upkeep of the facility.
According to Panwum, discussions are already underway with the Ministry of Finance to secure emergency funding. The aim is to protect the pitch and prevent further deterioration, allowing the stadium to host future high-profile matches without issues.
“CAF said we should do a major work on the pitch, which we have admitted and are doing. Even now, if they come back, based on the progress we have made, they could pass us to use it for the next game,” Panwum said during the session.
He added, “However, per their rules, we need to provide them with updates so they can reassess the pitch and give us the green light. It is very unfortunate that we have reached this point, but we are doing everything we can to rectify the situation.”
Panwum further defended the practice of renting the stadium for non-sporting events, pointing out that it is a common practice in other countries. “It is no news that even Wembley is given out for concerts. However, they ensure that the pitch is protected,” he said.
Panwum explained that he has already discussed the issue with the Minister of Finance and hopes that urgent action will be taken to support the NSA’s efforts to generate revenue while also maintaining the stadium’s facilities.
He emphasized that gate proceeds from matches are often insufficient to cover the costs associated with maintaining the stadium. As a result, the NSA has had to explore alternative revenue streams, such as renting out the stadium for events.
However, Panwum acknowledged that more needs to be done to protect the pitch during these events to prevent damage.
The Parliamentary Select Committee’s investigation into the state of sports in Ghana continues, with the NSA promising to address the concerns raised and ensure that the Baba Yara Sports Stadium is fully prepared for the upcoming AFCON Qualifier.
Fans and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting CAF’s final decision on the stadium’s readiness, as the match against Sudan will be critical for Ghana’s chances of qualifying for the 2025 AFCON.
As it stands, the NSA is optimistic that the ongoing renovations will be completed in time, and they are committed to working with CAF to ensure that all necessary improvements are made.
However, the need for urgent financial support remains a pressing issue, and the NSA is hopeful that the Ministry of Finance will provide the required assistance to protect one of Ghana’s most iconic sports venues.
In the meantime, the NSA has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the Baba Yara Sports Stadium remains a key venue for both local and international sports events, while also generating the revenue needed to maintain the facility.
The upcoming match against Sudan will be a crucial test for the NSA, and all eyes will be on the stadium as Ghana prepares to compete for a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament.
