In a move to bolster Ghana’s sporting reputation, the Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) recently met with Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, the Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, to strengthen their existing partnership and explore new avenues for sports development. This collaboration underscores the importance of unified efforts in elevating Ghana’s standing on the global sports stage, particularly in the niche but growing sport of armwrestling. The discussions centered on how to leverage their combined resources to further promote sports and enhance the nation’s image.

The visit to the Ghana Immigration Service served as an opportunity to deepen the ties between the GAF and the Service. Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, emphasized the historical significance of this partnership, noting that the Ghana Immigration Service has been a key ally since 2016. He also congratulated Mr. Amadu on his recent appointment. The Service has not only supported the Federation but has also nurtured talented athletes, including national team captain Edward Asamoah and world referee Nii Otoo Larkyne, showcasing its commitment to sports development beyond armwrestling.

“The Ghana Immigration Service has been one of the Federation’s key partners since the inception of the sport in 2016,” stated Mr. Osei Asibey, highlighting the long-standing relationship. This support has been instrumental in the Federation’s achievements, demonstrating the value of inter-organizational collaboration in achieving sporting success.

The Ghana Immigration Service’s contribution to armwrestling’s success is evident in the medal haul at the 2023 Africa Games. President Osei Asibey proudly announced that Ghana Armwrestling secured 41 medals, a feat made possible, in part, by the support of personnel from the Ghana Immigration Service. He further encouraged the Service to prioritize sports as a powerful tool for enhancing its public image and fostering national pride. While acknowledging the challenges faced, Mr. Osei Asibey recognized the security service’s unwavering commitment to sports development.

“Through the support of personnel from the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Armwrestling was able to win a total of 41 medals at the 2023 Africa Games,” Mr. Osei Asibey remarked, underscoring the tangible impact of the partnership.

Mr. Samuel Basintale Amadu, Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service, expressed his gratitude to the Ghana Armwrestling Federation for their continued support. He acknowledged the Service’s historical involvement in sports and its contribution to various disciplines over the years. Looking ahead, Mr. Amadu outlined plans to inject fresh talent into the Service’s sports teams across different sporting areas. He also admitted that the Service had been relying on past glories and emphasized the urgent need to revitalize its sports programs.

“We now need to intensify our efforts. This is a sports-friendly organisation,” affirmed Mr. Amadu, signaling a renewed commitment to sports development within the Ghana Immigration Service.

The overarching goal of this strengthened partnership is to transform the institution’s presence in national competitions by revitalizing its sports teams. Mr. Amadu conveyed his appreciation to the GAF and extended his best wishes for their endeavors to develop armwrestling and promote Ghana on the international stage. As a symbolic gesture of the partnership, the Comptroller-General was presented with a medal, representing the shared commitment to sports development and national pride. This collaborative effort between the Armwrestling Board & CGI Basintale promises a bright future for sports in Ghana.

The collaboration between the Ghana Armwrestling Federation and the Ghana Immigration Service exemplifies a strategic approach to sports development in Ghana. By combining their resources and expertise, they aim to elevate Ghana’s sporting image, foster national pride, and achieve greater success on the international stage. The renewed emphasis on sports within the Immigration Service, coupled with the GAF’s existing programs, sets a promising course for the future of armwrestling and other sports in the nation.