Open Letter to Kofi Adams, Minister-designate for Sports and Recreation
Dear Kofi Adams, Congratulations on your nomination as Minister designate for Sports and Recreation under President John Dramani Mahama’s “Resetting” agenda.
Welcome to one of Ghana’s most intriguing and scrutinised ministries, where sports transcend mere competition to play a vital role in our socio-economic and socio-political identity.
Your nomination as the Minister designate for the renamed Ministry of Sports and Recreation has sparked considerable conversation—not because you lack the credentials, but because sports has not been a dominant feature of your public life.
This presents both a challenge and an opportunity: a challenge to prove your critics wrong and an opportunity to redefine the ministry’s legacy by aligning it with the President’s transformative vision.
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation is unlike any other. It is a lightning rod for public and media scrutiny. Sports occupies a unique position in the hearts of Ghanaians, with football leading the charge as a national obsession.
Almost every radio station, TV channel, and newspaper dedicates substantial attention to sports.
The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG)—of which I am a proud member and the immediate past vice-president —is the most active media body in the country. I can assure you that the sports media is both relentless and influential.
Make no mistake: the spotlight will be intense. You will be praised when things go right and fiercely criticised—sometimes unreasonably—when challenges arise. I hope you are prepared for this spotlight.
Over the years, a narrative of "unseen hands" or a "Mafia" undermining sports ministers has gained traction. It is a myth perpetuated to explain the failures of past ministers. My three decades of experience suggest otherwise.
Those who served with diligence, honesty, and a clear vision often left with their reputations intact or enhanced. Conversely, those driven by selfish ambitions or embroiled in scandals exited dishonourably.
This ministry has the power to elevate a minister to national prominence—or leave them scarred by controversies. Your tenure will depend on where you fall on this spectrum.
As you prepare to assume office, I urge you to reflect on the essential qualities Ghanaian sports so desperately need to succeed at this period in our nation’s development journey.
First, you must hit the ground running. This is no place for on-the-job training. Your ability to understand the complexities of Ghanaian sports from day one will determine your early success.
Moreover, the sector demands a unifier, not a polarising figure. Your humility, calmness, and selflessness will be indispensable in rallying diverse stakeholders, from football associations to grassroots organisers.
Stability is paramount. The ministry has, at times, been a hotbed of chaos and distractions. Under Mahama’s resetting vision, your leadership must bring structure, order, and a calming presence.
Stakeholders need to see you as a steady hand, capable of navigating the turbulent waters of Ghanaian sports while prioritising national interest.
Additionally, your ability to inspire and lead engagements with international sports bodies and business partners will be critical. The modern sports world demands leaders who can attract investment, cultivate partnerships, and position Ghana as a competitive global force.
Financial independence is equally crucial to safeguard your integrity and avoid the pitfalls of corruption that have plagued some predecessors.
Above all, your tenure must be marked by tangible achievements. Ghanaians are tired of rhetoric; they want results.
From improving grassroots sports to enhancing facilities and driving success on the international stage. The legacy of this ministry will rest on your ability to translate promises into action.
Mr Adams, the sports sector is at a crossroads. It needs a leader who can embody vision, action and results. This is not just about managing a ministry—it is about leveraging sports as a tool for national development.
The expectations are immense, but so are the opportunities. Your success will not only shape the future of Ghanaian sports but also contribute to President Mahama’s broader agenda of resetting our national priorities.
You are not alone on this journey. As a journalist who has chronicled the highs and lows of Ghanaian sports for decades, I pledge to support and scrutinise your work in equal measure.
The sports media, for all its criticisms, is your ally in driving transparency and accountability. Together, we can chart a new path for Ghanaian sports.
Mr Adams, your tenure holds the promise of a new era. This is your moment to lead, inspire, and leave a legacy that will resonate for generations. The nation is watching and the ball is now in your court.
I wish you a successful tenure.
Sincerely,
Maurice Quansah
Editor, Graphic Sports