Accra: Mr. Charles Amofa, the President of the Ghana Bowls Federation (GBF), has commended the hierarchy of the World Bowls Federation for successfully launching the Ghana chapter of one of the fastest-growing sports globally.
According to Ghana News Agency, the delegation present at the launch of the GBF included notable figures such as Mr. Brett O. Riley, World Bowls President; Mr. Sue Beatt, Chairperson of the Scottish Sports Association and Executive Board Member of World Bowls; James Owen, World Para Bowls President; and David Hamer, Bowls South Africa President.
While speaking at the launch, Mr. Riley highlighted that bowls originated in Egypt 5,000 years ago, with archaeological findings showing artefacts and hieroglyphics depicting a game similar to modern-day bowling. He emphasized the numerous benefits of bowls, including muscle strengthening, cognitive, mental health, health, and social benefits.
Mr. Riley described bowls as a decision-making sport accessible to everyone, regardless of age or ab
ility, and mentioned events worldwide that Ghana has been invited to participate in, including the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, the Bowls World Cup in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane, Australia. He also announced plans to develop an academy in Ghana for hosting international competitions.
Mr. Mohammed Muniru, Secretary General of the Ghana Olympic Committee, welcomed the new discipline and promised support for the sport’s growth. Meanwhile, Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), encouraged Ghanaians, particularly the youth, to engage in bowls, highlighting its potential to reach international levels and urging corporate support.
The NSA boss expressed satisfaction with Ghana leading the sport in West Africa, noting its potential for employment creation and integration into schools and colleges. The launch featured a demonstration of the sport, attended by dignitaries such as Mr. Alfred Kotey Ashie, MP for Odododiodio, M
r. Archibald Darku Boateng of El-Sayus Company, and Asafoanyemei from the Ga Traditional Area.
Prominent attendees also included Mr. Bright Asempa of the Ghana Tourism Authority and Col. Richard Akoto of the Ghana Armed Forces.