As part of his nationwide tour to evaluate the condition of Ghana’s major sports infrastructure, Hon. Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister for Sports and Recreation, visited the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
Accompanied by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and welcomed by the Acting Regional Director of the National Sports Authority along with technical staff, the Minister began the visit with a closed-door briefing. He was updated on the stadium’s current status, urgent infrastructural challenges, and the necessary renovations to restore the venue’s full functionality and compliance with international licensing standards.
The inspection covered key areas including the pitch, dressing rooms, safe zones, spectator stands, and other operational facilities. Despite major renovations in 2022, the stadium now requires significant upgrades to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards. Particular concerns highlighted were the deteriorating natural grass pitch, a non-functional public address system, worn dressing rooms and washrooms, damaged floodlights, and aging seating.
Kofi Adams stressed the critical need to restore Baba Yara Stadium, not only to host upcoming CAF Inter-Club matches for Asante Kotoko and Bibiani Gold Stars but also to boost domestic football and improve the fan experience in Kumasi. He pledged to collaborate closely with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council and other stakeholders to implement immediate maintenance and longer-term improvements.
Acknowledging financial constraints in the sports sector, the Minister revealed that the Ministry is exploring innovative funding mechanisms, including public-private partnerships, to upgrade Ghana’s premier stadiums to international standards. He also indicated ongoing efforts to engage corporate partners to support renovation projects.
