Deputy Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Majeed Bawa has commended Happy FM’s ‘Celebrating Our Heroes’ initiative for its prompt acknowledgment of Ghana’s living football legends – the remaining members of the 1963 Black Stars squad who won Ghana’s first AFCON trophy.
Speaking at the launch of the initiative held at the Ghana Tourism Authority Information Centre, Bawa stressed the urgency of honoring these iconic figures without delay.
He stated, “There is a saying, better late than never… We must start and continue and not wait for these legends to get old and later die before they are celebrated.”
Pointing out the collective responsibility, he urged the Ministry of Youth and Sports, National Sports Authority, and the Ghana Football Association to take the lead in honoring these iconic figures.
The occasion holds special significance since it marked the 60th anniversary of Ghana’s historic 1963 AFCON triumph, a milestone etched in the nation’s football legacy.
Happy FM’s initiative is not only aimed at broadcasting the AFCON tournament but also to pay tribute to the heroes who played pivotal roles in shaping Ghana’s football history.
During the event, Bawa, with evident pride, acknowledged and honored five surviving members of the 1963 Nations Cup tournament’s 18-man squad: Dodoo Ankrah (Real Republikans), Kofi Pare (Real Republikans), Wilberforce Mfum (Kotoko), Leonard Acquah (Defence Stars), and Anum Okai (Hearts of Oak).
Stressing the need to celebrate those who clinched Ghana’s first AFCON trophy and subsequent victories, Bawa echoed the sentiment that such recognition should not be delayed.
Ghana, a four-time AFCON champion has struggled to secure a fifth for over 40 years. The Black Stars will be hoping to secure victory in the next edition after exiting from the group stages in the previous tournament.
2023 AFCON is scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, in Ivory Coast, where 24 teams will vie for the prestigious continental title. This marks the second time that the Africa Cup of Nations finals will be organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Côte d’Ivoire.
