Armwrestling’s rise is remarkable, corporate institutions must support development – Prez Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has lauded the Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) for the sport's remarkable growth and called on corporate Ghana to support its continued development.

In a meeting with the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, President Akufo-Addo expressed admiration for the sport’s rapid progress, noting how Ghanaians have secured positions on international committees and won numerous medals for the country since 2016, particularly with their impressive performance at the African Games.

"Armwrestling has made tremendous strides in Ghana, and it’s heartwarming to see our athletes excel internationally," President Akufo-Addo remarked. "The GAF deserves commendation for its tireless efforts, especially for saving Ghana’s reputation during the African Games."

The President also emphasised the potential of armwrestling to promote healthy lifestyles, youth development, and national pride.

"Armwrestling embodies the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork," President Akufo-Addo stated. "It is essential we nurture this sport for the benefit of our youth and nation. I urge corporate and multinational institutions to support or partner with armwrestling through sponsorships of development programs and participation in competitions."

President Akufo-Addo specifically commended Charles Osei Asibey, an astute journalist and the President of the GAF, along with his board, for their diligent work since 2016.

"Armwrestling may be traditional, but I didn’t know it was a sport actively practiced in Ghana until I started reading about it in the dailies," the President added.

He appealed to corporate Ghana to collaborate with the GAF, stressing that "government alone cannot make it possible." The President added, "Together, we can create a thriving armwrestling ecosystem that benefits our youth, promotes healthy lifestyles, and showcases Ghanaian excellence."

President Akufo-Addo also praised athlete Grace Minta for her outstanding performances and ambassadorial role in the sport's success.

GAF President Charles Osei Asibey expressed gratitude to the President for his endorsement and affirmed the federation’s goal to make armwrestling a household name and the sport of choice in Ghana. "We are committed to encouraging participation, developing grassroots talent, and producing both continental and global champions," Osei Asibey said.

He also thanked the government and corporate partners such as SES Ghana, Kofikrom Pharmacy Limited, Twellium Industries, the National Health Insurance Authority, Nguvu Mining Limited, Ghana Gas Company, and ABL Eagle Extra Stout for their investments in the sport’s development.

President Akufo-Addo tasked the Minister for Youth and Sports to work with the federation to further harness armwrestling's potential for national development. He also announced that armwrestling will be provided with a dedicated training center and a secretariat for the Africa Armwrestling Federation, to be located in Accra.

Present at the meeting were the Chief of Staff, Madam Frema Opare, the Minister for Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, and other dignitaries including Pharm. Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, Vice President of Ghana and Africa Armwrestling, DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, Godfrey William Amarteifio, Husseini Addy, as well as members of the Golden Arms team.