In a surprising turn of events, Hon. Benjamin Kessie, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tarkwa-Nsuaem, has taken decisive action to address concerns over the management of the Tarkwa-Nsuaem (TNA) Stadium.
Leading a community initiative, Kessie spearheaded the dismissal of officials from the National Sports Authority (NSA) due to growing dissatisfaction with how the stadium has been operated.
Community members, rallying behind Kessie, voiced their frustrations over the stadium’s deteriorating condition, attributing it to neglect and mismanagement under the NSA’s supervision. In response to these issues, the Tarkwa community unanimously decided to take control of the facility. This led to the establishment of an Interim Management Committee (IMC) tasked with overseeing the stadium’s daily operations and maintenance.
The IMC comprises representatives from various local stakeholder groups and is charged with ensuring that the stadium is adequately maintained and meets the necessary standards for hosting sporting events and community activities. The committee plans to collaborate closely with local authorities and residents to run the facility efficiently and effectively.
Hon. Benjamin Kessie emphasized the stadium’s significance to the Tarkwa community, highlighting its role not only as a sports venue but also as a center for social and cultural gatherings. “We cannot allow our stadium to fall into disrepair, especially when it plays such a vital role in the life of our community. This decision is in the best interest of Tarkwa,” he remarked.
As of now, the NSA has not officially responded to the community’s actions, but the situation has highlighted broader concerns regarding the management of sports infrastructure in Ghana. Community leaders are hopeful that this intervention will set a precedent for improved oversight and accountability in the management of public sports facilities nationwide.
Meanwhile, the Interim Management Committee is set to commence its work immediately, aiming to restore the TNA Stadium to a standard that the Tarkwa community can be proud of, ensuring it continues to serve as a valuable asset for both sports and community engagement.
