The construction of the impressive Tarkwa Nsuaem Aboso (TNA) Stadium has brought about a brewing conflict between the Tarkwa Municipal Assembly and the National Sports Authority, according to reports from totalsportsghana.com
This state-of-the-art stadium, with a seating capacity of 12,000, is set to be completed 11th March 2024 by Michellete company Ltd and handover to Gold Fields Foundation 26th March 2024 then to the owner . However, it has triggered a dispute over its management. The stadium was primarily intended to become the home ground for Ghana Premier League champions, Medeama SC, but the dispute revolves around who will take charge of this modern sports facility.
The project, with an estimated cost of $16 million, was generously funded by mining giants GoldFields. Surprisingly, the decision regarding its management has been left in the hands of the two state agencies – the Tarkwa Municipal Assembly and the National Sports Authority.
Project Manager Roger Adama shared insights into the stadium’s progress, highlighting several remaining tasks before it can be handed over. These include work on the playing pitch, external facilities such as car parks and walkways, connections to public utilities, horticultural landscaping, the installation of floodlights, and other key components.
The contest over management rights has raised significant concerns and stirred controversy within the community. The Tarkwa Municipal Assembly is determined to assume control of the stadium once it’s completed in five months, setting them on a collision course with the National Sports Authority (NSA).
The NSA’s involvement in the stadium’s management has sparked concerns due to a history of mismanagement of state sporting properties. This has left many, including the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal Assembly and its residents, wary of the NSA’s intentions.
Residents and football fans in Tarkwa, especially supporters of Medeama and Tarkwa United and Football loving fans are firmly against any move to hand the facility to the National Sports Authority. They have cautioned NSA officials against further attempts to manage the ultra-modern stadium.
The completion of the TNA Stadium, funded by GoldFields, is a promising development for the region. The Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal Assembly is expected to be in charge of the stadium’s management, benefiting various sporting interests in Tarkwa and its surroundings.
Medeama SC, as the region’s only Premier League football club, stands to gain substantially from this state-of-the-art facility. The stadium, fully covered and costing an estimated $16 million, is set to become an economic catalyst for the area, enhancing its sports infrastructure and community engagement opportunities. It will also feature a complete seating capacity, redesigned pitch, VIP and media stands, ticket booths, drainage systems, and an electronic scoreboard, further elevating its appeal and functionality.
