On Monday, world-renowned British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua, alongside the Legacy Rise Sports team, paid a courtesy call on President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House following the successful Legacy Rise boxing event held in Accra on Friday.
The meeting served as a moment of reflection on Ghana’s sporting journey, with key voices highlighting both the gains and missed opportunities in the sector.
Sports Minister, Kofi Adams Commends Mahama’s Contribution to Sports
In his remarks, the Minister for Youth and Sports highlighted the instrumental role President Mahama played in advancing Ghana’s sports sector during his tenure.
He noted that the Mahama-led administration made bold investments, including the construction of the Bukom Boxing Arena, which continues to serve as a key pillar for boxing and youth development in Ghana.
The Minister, however, acknowledged that some facilities at the Arena, particularly the hostels intended to house a sports academy, were not used for their original purpose. Nonetheless, he emphasized that the overall sector has responded positively to the foundation laid under President Mahama’s leadership.
He added that Ghana is witnessing a resurgence in sports, with football performing well and athletics steadily gaining global recognition. “Friday’s Legacy Rise event put Ghana at the heart of global boxing,” he said, “and that is a testament to the progress we’re making.”
Anthony Joshua: Ghana is Now Close to My Heart
Speaking at the event, Anthony Joshua admitted that visiting Ghana was not originally part of his plans, but he was moved by the experience. “Coming to Ghana was not in my agenda, but I came through,” he said. “I’m amazed by the culture and reception I’ve received.”
The former unified world heavyweight champion expressed interest in connecting Africa to the world through sports and acknowledged President Mahama’s efforts to revive the sector. “I understand some of your policies and what you’re trying to do. I’m branching into a sector where we can connect Africa to the world,” he noted.
President Mahama: We Still Believe in Ghanaian Boxing Talent
President Mahama, reflecting on Friday night’s boxing showcase, described it as a success that brought back memories of Ghana’s glorious boxing history. He lamented the decline of the sport in recent years but reaffirmed his belief in its revival.
“Ghana has been a boxing powerhouse since the First Republic, but over time, the sport declined. We tried hard to revive it, which is why we built the Bukom Arena,” Mahama stated. “One of my regrets is that we didn’t build it bigger, especially now with growing interest in the sport.”
He shared that the vision behind the arena was to discover and nurture new talent, though that aspect fell short. “Talents exist everywhere, but it takes one champion to change an entire society,” he added.
President Mahama also spoke fondly of his son, Sharaf Mahama, describing him as someone who has always been passionate about sports. “He started with football and moved into boxing. I truly believe we can raise future world champions.”
Concluding the meeting, President Mahama offered Anthony Joshua honorary
Ghanaian citizenship:
“Ghana is a second home. If you want a passport, we’ll gladly give you one.”
The meeting ended on a high note, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to boxing development and broader sports diplomacy across Africa.
