Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Abetifi and Minister for Food and Agriculture, has made a bold commitment to ensuring the completion of the long-awaited Nkawkaw Sports Stadium. In a recent interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen program, the MP stated that even if the government fails to fulfill its responsibility in constructing the stadium, the people of Kwahu, known as Kwahuman, will take matters into their own hands and finish the project themselves. This pledge highlights the deep commitment of the Kwahu people to the development of sports and infrastructure in their region.
Dr. Acheampong acknowledged that while there have been significant setbacks in the stadium’s construction, Kwahuman has been unable to act independently because the project is a government-awarded contract. The project is currently under the purview of the Middle Belt Development Authority (MDA), which has delayed progress. Despite these challenges, the MP remains optimistic and confident that Kwahuman has the capability to complete the project swiftly if given the opportunity.
“We are more than ready to build the stadium,” Acheampong said during the interview. “We can complete it within six months, but because the contract has been handed out under the Middle Belt Development Authority, we haven’t been able to intervene.” However, he emphasized that the stadium is located on Kwahu land, and if the government fails to move forward, the Kwahu people will take control of the project to ensure its completion. He further stressed that Kwahuman’s commitment to this project stems from their deep-rooted love for football and the desire to promote the sport in the region.
Dr. Acheampong, who has a personal connection to the sport as a former chairman of the Kwahu United football team, expressed that the completion of the stadium would reignite passion for football in the community. He explained that the region’s football culture has always been vibrant, and the construction of the stadium would not only enhance local sports but also provide the necessary infrastructure for the youth to develop their talents. “Every time there is a football game, there’s a renewed spirit in the community,” he said. “It’s in our best interest to complete this stadium, and we’re committed to doing it.”
The Nkawkaw Sports Stadium, which was originally announced in 2020, is expected to be an 8,000-seater FIFA-standard facility. The stadium’s design also includes provisions for a multi-purpose court that can host more than 16 sporting disciplines, a tennis court, a gymnasium, a World Athletics-standard track, hostels, and a restaurant. The project, which was estimated to cost approximately GH¢27 million, was seen as a major step toward advancing sports infrastructure in the Eastern Region. Despite the grand plans, four years later, the project has stalled, much to the frustration of residents.
The delay has not gone unnoticed by the local community, with several demonstrations held to express their displeasure with the lack of progress. Residents have long awaited the benefits the stadium would bring, not just in terms of sports development but also for its potential to create jobs, boost local businesses, and attract more tourism to the area. While patience is wearing thin, Dr. Acheampong’s latest assurance provides a glimmer of hope that Kwahuman’s determination will ultimately bring the project to fruition.
Dr. Acheampong concluded his interview by reiterating that Kwahuman stands ready to pick up where the government leaves off, should the need arise. “We took our eyes off the ball for a while, but now we’re focused and committed,” he said, highlighting Kwahuman’s determination to ensure the success of the stadium project. The people of Kwahu are passionate about sports, and they understand the impact that a facility like this could have on the local economy, culture, and youth development. With this renewed commitment, it seems the future of the Nkawkaw Sports Stadium, while delayed, remains bright and in the capable hands of the Kwahu people.
As the community eagerly awaits further developments, Dr. Acheampong’s pledge sends a clear message: Kwahuman is ready and willing to take the reins if necessary, ensuring that this vital project reaches completion for the benefit of the entire region. Whether through government support or community action, the Nkawkaw Sports Stadium is a project that must, and will, be realized.
