In a spirited display of unity and athletic pride, the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), led by newly elected President Richard Akpokavie, marked International Olympic Day on June 14, 2025, with a lively community walk through the heart of Accra. Just months into his tenure following a decisive victory at the GOC Elective Congress on April 26, 2025, Akpokavie is already making waves, transforming Olympic Day into a vibrant celebration of sport and community.
The event, which commemorates the birth of the modern Olympic Movement in 1948, kicked off at dawn at the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum. Athletes, coaches, students, and supporters gathered beneath the iconic statue of Ghana’s first president before embarking on a symbolic procession through Osu Castle and into central Accra, accompanied by the infectious rhythms of a brass band.
The walk culminated at the Accra Sports Stadium, where the energy soared. Schoolchildren dazzled with synchronized aerobics routines, whil’s Akpokavie and members of the National Sports Authority (NSA) joined in spirited fitness demonstrations under a blazing morning sky. The GOC president’s hands-on participation underscored his commitment to fostering inclusivity and enthusiasm for sport across Ghana.
In a bold move to expand the reach of Olympic Day, Akpokavie announced plans to take the celebration beyond Accra. “We want it to be very big and possibly go to the other regions, so it’s not only based in Accra,” he declared, outlining efforts to form committees and lay out a structured plan. His vision reflects a proactive approach to engaging communities nationwide, a hallmark of his early leadership.
NSA Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah praised the event’s unifying spirit, stating, “Olympic Day is more than a celebration; it’s a call to action. We want every Ghanaian to discover the joy of movement and believe they, too, can be champions in life.” His words echoed the event’s core message: Olympic values of friendship, excellence, and respect belong to all.
Under Akpokavie’s guidance, the GOC is already showing signs of revitalization. His swift action to elevate Olympic Day into a national spectacle highlights his ambition to strengthen Ghana’s sporting culture. As the event drew to a close, the streets of Accra buzzed with a renewed sense of unity, proving that Akpokavie’s leadership is setting a strong foundation for the future of Ghanaian sports.
Story By: Kwame Lawerh
