Bui: Mr Duah Isaac Aboagye, the President of the Ghana Tennis Federation (GTF), has urged for increased support to improve physical infrastructure to foster the growth and development of tennis in the nation. He highlighted the sport's economic prospects, noting its potential to create jobs and alleviate youth unemployment, alongside its recreational benefits.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Aboagye also praised the Bui Tennis Club (BTC) of the Bui Power Authority for its efforts in promoting tennis at the local level. Despite the sport's potential, he expressed concern over the lack of commitment from successive governments in its development. He emphasized the need for effective collaboration with Corporate Ghana and other organizations to build more tennis courts and enhance facilities at both national and regional levels.
Mr Aboagye pointed out that, despite financial challenges, the GTF has successfully nurtured and showcased tennis players on the international stage. Speaking at the closing session of a two-day tennis competition organized by the BTC, he stressed the importance of creating an environment conducive to training coaches and harnessing regional tennis talents.
He noted the federation's struggles over the past 15 years to secure government funding, while commending the BTC for its significant role in advancing the sport. Mr Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, emphasized the need to enhance the growth of tennis and other lesser-known sports to tap into their potential.
Mr Puozuing expressed optimism that improved infrastructure could enable tennis to generate employment and increase the nation's foreign income. Mr Wumbila Salifu, Director of Estate at BPA and Chairman of the BTC, reiterated the club's commitment to developing tennis potential in the dam's enclave.
The competition, supported by the BPA, included the Techiman Holy Family Tennis Club, Techiman Tennis Club, and Wa Tennis Club. Trophies and medals were awarded to all participating clubs, and technical discussions were initiated to further the sport's growth in the Bui/Jama enclave.