The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) has recently welcomed a new General Secretary, Patrick Johnson, who has assured that the Normalisation Committee set up to implement reforms in the sport will not exceed its mandate beyond 2026. Johnson, appointed by the National Sports Authority (NSA) in response to the GBA’s request, stated that the committee’s primary objective is to reshape the entire boxing landscape in Ghana to ensure the sport flourishes for the benefit of all involved.
The NSA, with the full support of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, established the ad hoc Normalisation Committee to take charge of the GBA once the current board’s extended mandate expires on August 19. This decision was made following the recommendations of a Ministerial Commission of Enquiry into the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwanreju during a professional fight in Accra earlier this year.
Johnson, entrusted by the NSA to oversee the transition, emphasized that the reforms will revolutionize the sport from the grassroots level to elite competition. He mentioned that a comprehensive five-year development plan has been crafted to attract investments into boxing and ensure sustainable growth.
During a recent meeting between the NSA and the GBA executive, NSA Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah introduced three consultants who will provide support to the committee. The team has already presented a new roadmap based on a five-year plan, inspired by the successful restructuring of the Ghana Football Association in 2018–19, which laid the groundwork for significant reform in Ghanaian football.
The GBA’s chief administrator envisions making Ghana a hub for major international boxing events, with world title fights and top-level contests taking place locally to enhance business and sports tourism. However, he stressed that the committee’s role is temporary and urged all stakeholders to offer their full support to ensure the work is completed within the specified timeframe.
“The mandate concludes in 2026. By then, we expect to hand over to a new president and a duly elected management board to continue the advancement of Ghana boxing,” Johnson emphasized.
This commitment to reform and growth in the sport of boxing demonstrates the dedication of the GBA and its partners to elevate the sport to new heights in Ghana. With a clear vision and a solid plan in place, the future looks promising for boxing in the country.
