The year 2025 will be etched in the annals of Ghanaian sports as a landmark period for the Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) as Ghana’s national Armwrestling team, the Golden Arms, did not just compete; they showcased a spectacular, medal-laden campaign across the continent and the globe, firmly cementing the nation’s reputation as an African powerhouse in the sport.
The African Glory: A Cascade of 55 Medals
The journey of triumph for Ghana’s armwrestling team in 2025 began with the “Battle for Independence” championship held in Accra on March 7, 2025. This annual event, organized by the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, brought together top athletes from Ghana and neighboring countries like Nigeria, Benin, and Togo to compete in various weight categories.
The tournament featured standout performances from Ghana’s finest, including Africa’s top female armwrestler, Grace Minta, Mabel Yeboah, Daniel Acquah, and Henry Otoo. Ghana’s team showcased incredible strength and skill, winning medals and bragging rights.
Ghana confirmed its continental supremacy three months later in Abuja, Nigeria, at the 14th African Armwrestling Championship in July. Against fierce continental competition, the Golden Arms delivered a commanding performance to secure an astonishing 55 medals, comprising 26 gold, 20 silver, and 9 bronze. This remarkable haul earned Ghana a commendable second-place finish overall, following host nation Nigeria.
The squad, led by the evergreen world champion Grace Mintah of the Ghana Police Service and Edward Yamoah Asamoah of the Ghana Immigration Service, demonstrated a formidable blend of veteran experience and youthful exuberance. Their collective resilience and determination, even when faced with resource constraints, were a powerful evident to the sport’s consistent growth under the GAF’s leadership. The championship was not just a medal-winning spree; it was a critical step in qualifying athletes for the 2025 World Championship and the 2027 All-African Games. Mabel Yeboah, Blessed Abekah Nunoo, Daniel Acquah, Henry Otoo, Charles Osei Asibey Jr., Joshua Yeboah, Godwin Sackey, Florence Boakye etc were dominant.
Global Statement: Medalists on the World Stage
Riding the wave of African success, a determined contingent of 3 Golden Arms travelled to Albena, Bulgaria, for the 2025 World Armwrestling Championship. Facing the world’s elite pullers, the team made a significant statement by clinching three medals, two silver and one bronze.
Mabel Yeboah, a Civilian Prison Officer, was the star performer, securing silver in the Youth Women’s 60kg left arm event and a bronze in the right arm event. Blessed Abeka Nunoo of the Ghana Immigration Service, a rising star, historically claimed a silver medal in the Junior 60kg right arm division whilst Daniel Acquah who missed his weight category was a delight to watch competing to place 5th in the Youth 75kg.
These achievements accentuate the GAF’s strategic development program, proving that Ghana’s strength is not limited to Africa but can contend with the best on the international platform. The dedication of the athletes, backed by the federation’s tireless efforts, translated into tangible global recognition.
Para-Armwrestling Excellence: Champions of the West Africa Para Games
In a further demonstration of commitment to inclusive sports, the Ghana Armwrestling contingent also shone brightly at the inaugural West Africa Para Games in Abeokuta, Nigeria, in December.
Leading the charge was Tahiru Haruna, who pulled his way to two gold medals, with teammates Frank Fudzi and Isaac Nii Ayitey contributing vital bronze medals. Their exceptional performance highlighted the deep well of talent within the para-sports community and reaffirmed the GAF’s role in championing all facets of the sport.
The Zenith of Achievement: The collective success of the Golden Arms across continental, global, and para-sport platforms did not go unnoticed by the nation’s sports media. Capping off an extraordinary year, the Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) was rightfully named as the first on the Top Federations list at the 50th Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Awards.
This prestigious recognition is a fitting tribute to the GAF’s consistent medal-winning performances, exceptional administration, and its impactful role in positioning Ghana as a major force in international Armwrestling.
Under the leadership of its President, Charles Osei Asibey, who was also re-elected as Vice President of the World Armwrestling Federation, the GAF board and workforce have proven to be a model of excellence, setting a high standard for sports administration and athletic achievement in Ghana.
An Expression of Profound Gratitude: Thank You to Our Esteemed Partners
The unprecedented success of the Golden Arms in 2025, culminating in a Top Federation award from SWAG, was not achieved by the athletes alone. It was made possible by the belief and critical support of our corporate and governmental partners.
The Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) extends its deepest appreciation to all our sponsors and institutions for their timely and dedicated contributions that powered our campaigns at the African Championship, the World Championship, and the West Africa Para Games.
National Health Insurance Authority (NPA), Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), National Petroleum Authority (NPA), OmniBSIC Bank, Glico Life, Ghana Civil Aviation Aviation (GCAA), Stanbic Bank Ghana, National Lottery Authority (NLA), Security Agencies as Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Prison Service, Kofikrom Pharmacy Limited, Twellium Industries Limited, the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), National Sports Authority (NSA), Ministry of Sports and Recreation (MoSR), The Hope Brand (THB) and the entire Ghanaian media for the great support.
Their investment was not just in athletes, but in the youth, discipline, and national pride that the Golden Arms represent. We are committed to continuing this successful partnership in 2026 as we prepare to make history again.
On behalf of the GAF Board, the Executive Council, and all our medal-winning athletes, we say a heartfelt thank you to Ghana!
