Mohammed Alhassan proposes $100million 5-year Sports Development Plan to revitalise Ghana sports

Sports broadcaster and businessman Mohammed Alhassan has called for a transformative $100 million five-year sports development plan to address Ghana’s underperforming sports sector.

In a recent interview, Alhassan, a former head of sports at Radio Gold, emphasised the need for a comprehensive strategy to restore Ghana’s sporting glory. “We must ensure that every dollar invested in sports delivers maximum value,” he stated, underscoring the importance of cost-effectiveness, transparency, and accountability in sports administration.

Proposed Pillars of the Development Plan

The five-year plan (2025–2029) outlines key areas for intervention, focusing on talent development, coaching, infrastructure, international exposure, and governance.

1. Talent Identification and Development

– Grassroots Development: Heavy investment in grassroots programmes to identify and nurture young talents across various sports.

– Elite Athlete Support: Provision of world-class training facilities, nutritionists, and sports psychologists for top athletes.

– Scholarships and Academies: Establishment of sports academies and scholarships to combine education with athletic training.

2. Coach Education and Development

– Upskilling Coaches: Implementation of rigorous training programmes for coaches at all levels.

– International Exposure: Exchange programmes to learn best practices globally.

– Mentorship: Connecting experienced coaches with young, aspiring coaches through structured mentorship schemes.

3. Infrastructure Development

– Modern Facilities: Upgrading existing infrastructure and constructing new stadiums, training centres, and sports halls.

– Accessibility: Ensuring facilities are inclusive, catering to all demographics, including individuals with disabilities.

– Community Sports Centres: Development of affordable community sports facilities to encourage participation at all levels.

4. Increased International Exposure

– Global Competitions: Boosting Ghana’s presence in international competitions like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.

– Friendly Matches and Camps: Organising international friendlies and training camps abroad to sharpen athletes’ competitive edge.

– Focus on Strengths: Prioritising investment in football, athletics, and boxing, where Ghana has historically excelled.

5. Good Governance and Sustainability

– Transparent Administration: Regular audits and financial reporting to ensure accountability.

– Diverse Funding Sources: Securing private sector partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and international grants.

– Sustainability: Developing long-term plans to maintain funding and resources beyond the five-year period.

Funding and accountability

Alhassan called for a dedicated annual budget of $20 million over five years, sourced from both government allocations and private partnerships. “We must diversify funding sources to reduce overreliance on government funding,” he stressed.

He also proposed a robust impact assessment system to evaluate progress and ensure resources are optimally utilised. “Regular evaluations will allow us to make necessary adjustments and ensure that our resources are utilised optimally,” he added.

Community engagement

Alhassan highlighted the importance of involving local communities and NGOs in the sports development process. “Involving local communities and NGOs will not only leverage valuable resources but also foster a sense of ownership and participation in the development of Ghanaian sports,” he said.

Call to Action

The seasoned broadcaster urged the Mahama government to adopt the plan and rally all stakeholders to support its implementation. He emphasised that revitalising the sports sector would have far-reaching benefits, including boosting youth employment, increasing GDP through revenues from international competitions, and fostering national unity.

“A successful sports development plan will not only enhance Ghana’s international sporting standing but also boost the economy and unite Ghanaians through a shared passion for sports,” he concluded.

Alhassan’s proposal highlights the urgent need for a structured, well-funded approach to reposition Ghana as a force in global sports while leveraging the sector’s potential for economic and social transformation.

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