The newly commissioned Technical Centre in Winkogo, near Bolgatanaga, situated in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region has been named after Kurt Okraku, the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
The initial phase of this ambitious project encompasses the installation of an artificial pitch, floodlights, a generator set to power the lights, an inner perimeter, fencing surrounding the entire land parcel, two technical team benches, and two movable goalposts.
These facilities are designed not only to benefit the people of Winkogo and its neighboring areas but also to foster talent development and promote sports in the region.
During the centre’s commissioning on Friday, June 23, Tongo-Raana Naab Kugbil Namaltang, the overlord of the Talensi Traditional area, expressed his enthusiasm.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I pledge that if you (the GFA) need more land, come and we’ll give you more land to construct more facilities for us”. He said.
I am particularly honored that the GFA, led by Kurt Okraku, will be doing many other things here that will make us the envy of many.
I propose we name the Technical Center the Kurt E.S. Okraku Technical Center – Winkogo.”
Addressing the audience, Kurt Okraku remarked:
“I was very certain about the project and the benefits it would bring to the football ecosystem.
The people in this region needed something special to nurture talents and to grow the sport, and I can confidently say that they finally got it.
Winkogo is a top-quality football pitch that will help us produce the next Abedi Pele.”
Mr. Okraku also extended gratitude to the overlord of the Talensi Traditional area and the Headmaster of the Bolgatanga Senior High School for generously donating the land for this project.
He continued, “For me, this is the best news for the people of Winkogo and its environs.
The pitch is just the first phase of the project.
We will soon commence the construction of changing rooms for both girls and boys, an office complex for the Regional Football Association, and a spectator stand as part of the second and third phases.”
The forthcoming second phase of the Kurt Okraku Technical Centre aims to house the headquarters of the Upper East Regional Football Association, dressing rooms, spectator stands, and a FIFA-standard artificial football turf capable of hosting all matches, including elite domestic competitions.
This incredible endeavor is funded by the FIFA Forward 1.0 program, which highlights the global football community’s commitment to developing infrastructure and fostering the growth of the sport in various regions.