In a move that underscores the growing international interest in sports collaboration, H.E. Ivan Lukachuk, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Ghana, led a high-level delegation comprising investors and Mr. Andrii Zasakha, CEO of Agri Holding in Takoradi and President of Ukrainian Premier League FC, to engage with Ghanaian officials on establishing a football academy in Ghana.
The delegation paid a courtesy call on the Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister of Sports and Recreation, emphasizing Ukraine’s keen interest in fostering sports development and strengthening bilateral relations through football.
During the engagement, Minister Adams expressed appreciation for the visit, highlighting the importance of international sports collaborations in fostering development, resilience, and cultural exchange. He acknowledged Ukraine’s rich football history, rooted in its former Soviet legacy, notably through Dynamo Kyiv’s notable successes in European competitions.
Ghana, renowned for its vibrant football culture and immense talent pool, stands to benefit from international partnerships aimed at grassroots development. Hon. Adams welcomed interventions that can elevate grassroots football, emphasizing the potential for mutually beneficial collaboration with Ukraine.
Mr. Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), shared insights on ongoing initiatives within Ghana’s football ecosystem and expressed openness to aligning efforts with Ukrainian standards and expertise. He underscored the importance of strategic partnerships to enhance Ghana’s football infrastructure and talent development.
Closing the discussion, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams expressed optimism about the prospects of a strategic alliance. He stated, “We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that benefits both nations, promotes the spirit of sportsmanship, and builds resilience through sports.”
As Ghana continues to make strides in football development, the proposed partnership with Ukraine offers an exciting avenue for knowledge exchange, investment, and grassroots empowerment. Both nations appear committed to harnessing the power of football to foster unity, cultural understanding, and sustainable development.
Source: PR & Communication Unit, MoSR