The Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly has commissioned its first AstroTurf facility at Wesley Grammar School, marking a major step in efforts to improve sports infrastructure and promote youth development in the municipality.
The GH¢4.5 million facility, commissioned on Thursday, August 27, 2026, is expected to provide schools, football clubs, youth groups and residents with a modern venue for training, competitions and recreational activities.
The project, which was initiated in 2024, had stalled after the contractor was not paid. However, the Assembly, through the Legacy Fund and Common Fund, made the necessary payments to settle the contractor and ensure the completion of the project.
Youth development
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Adamu Musah Kalamu, said the facility would create opportunities for young footballers to develop their skills and gain the exposure needed to advance their careers.
He said sports had an important role to play in youth development and expressed the Assembly’s commitment to providing infrastructure that would enable young people to engage in productive sporting activities.
“This is the very first AstroTurf that has been constructed in the municipality,” he said.
Football matches were organised to mark the opening of the facility, attracting residents, football supporters and other members of the community.
Players who participated in the matches expressed excitement about gaining access to a modern playing surface within the municipality.
More facilities
The MCE also announced plans to construct another AstroTurf at the Kwashieman Cluster of Schools to serve residents in Kwashieman, Awoshie and adjoining communities.
The proposed facility was welcomed by residents, who said more sporting infrastructure would create additional avenues for young people to develop their talents and spend their leisure time productively.
Residents also urged the Assembly to make the new facility accessible to local football teams, schools and youth groups. They suggested that affordable charges should be considered to ensure that young people from different backgrounds could benefit.
Maintenance
Local football coaches and supporters appealed to the Assembly to put in place effective management and maintenance arrangements for the facility.
They said regular maintenance would help prevent the AstroTurf from deteriorating and ensure that it remained useful to the community for many years.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by the Ablekuma North Member of Parliament, Ewurabena Aubynn, officials of the Assembly, community and traditional leaders, school authorities, football officials, residents and football supporters.
The MCE also reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to commissioning development projects in the municipality every month from now to December.
The event ended on a positive note, with participants and residents commending the Assembly and other stakeholders for providing the facility and expressing hope that it would become a hub for regular sporting activities and talent development.
