The Newmont Akyem Development Foundation (NAkDeF) has commissioned and handed over a state-of-the-art sports arena to the people of Adausena in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to enhance community support and engagement in sports, promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle. The facility includes basketball and tennis courts, VIP stands, a gym, and washrooms, catering to the diverse needs of the community.
Speaking at the commissioning, Mr. Paul Apenu, Executive Secretary of NAkDeF, underscored the importance of the arena in fostering sports participation among the youth, basic school pupils, and senior high school students in the district.
“The basketball court has a seating capacity of 410, while the tennis court has 402 seats,” he stated. “This facility will not only boost interest in basketball and tennis among our youth but also serve as a source of revenue for the community through rentals to teams and groups.”
He assured stakeholders that a maintenance and management plan had been put in place to ensure that revenue from the facility would be used for its upkeep.
Nana Boni Abankro V, Chief of Adausena, expressed appreciation to NAkDeF for the initiative and pledged to uphold a strong maintenance culture. He called on the District Education Directorate’s Sports Unit to organise activities at the arena to promote physical activity and generate funds for the community.
Mr. Kennedy Ohene Boafo, Birim North District Sports Coordinator, announced plans to train and scout young talents for further development at the regional level, with the hope that in the next decade, the facility would help produce national basketball and tennis players.
Mr. Elisha Asiedu-Amponsah, Board Chairman of NAkDeF, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to youth development and sustainable community projects, including scholarships and infrastructure improvements.
He urged continuous collaboration between company representatives, traditional leaders, and local stakeholders to ensure the long-term success of NAkDeF’s initiatives.
