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Azumah Nelson Sports Complex falls into disrepair after years of neglect

Written by on June 28, 2024

The Azumah Nelson Sports Complex, located in North Kaneshie, Accra, is currently in a state of disrepair following years of neglect by authorities and successive governments.

The complex was part of 10 Youth Resource Centers planned for construction in 2018 with a nine-month completion deadline. However, several years later, the facility remains in a deteriorated condition.

Intended to serve as a multipurpose sports center accommodating over 40 different sporting disciplines, the complex has not met its potential.

Originally known as the Kaneshie Sports Complex, it was built in the 1970s during the era of the Supreme Military Council under General Acheampong.

The complex served as a training base for the Black Stars and other teams during the 1978 AFCON, which Ghana hosted and won.It was also frequently used for football matches, particularly by Accra Hearts of Oak and Great Olympics in the Ghana Premier League, while the Accra Sports Stadium (then called the Ohene Djan Stadium) was being rebuilt in 2007.

However, years of neglect have taken a toll on the facility, and the responsible authorities have failed to maintain it adequately.

Despite pledges from various governments to upgrade the complex and fulfill its intended purpose, none have followed through on these promises.

In March 2018, there was a glimmer of hope when former Sports Minister Isaac Asiamah commissioned renovation works to begin at the facility.

Sports journalist Jerome Octhere expressed concern over the current state of the Sports Complex, suggesting it reflects a lack of respect for the legacy of boxer Azumah Nelson.

“When I look at the Azumah Nelson Sports Complex in Kaneshie, the first impression that comes to mind is that we are disrespecting the legacy and stature of boxing champion Azumah Nelson. Its neglect over the years shows a lack of seriousness on our part.”

Those familiar with the history of that facility, stories abound dating back to its beginnings in the 1970s. We had hoped that in recent years, efforts would finally bring it to the state it rightfully deserves. Unfortunately, what we see today is far from exciting or pleasant,” he remarked.

Once completed, the Azumah Nelson Sports Complex was designed to host up to 5,000 spectators. The facility was planned to include a swimming pool, a standard football pitch, a basketball court, and running tracks. Additionally, it was set to house an ICT center, a counseling center, and an entrepreneurship center.


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