The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has issued a bold call for climate leadership in the world of sport, unveiling a series of green initiatives at the Global Sports and Sustainability Forum 2025 held in Cape Town.
Addressing an international audience of policymakers, sports executives, and climate advocates, the Minister urged countries to reimagine sports infrastructure as a catalyst for environmental resilience and community development.
Hosted by SPORTS20 under the theme “Another World Is Possible,” the event featured voices from around the world exploring how sport can confront global crises like climate change and biodiversity loss.
In his opening remarks, the Minister emphasised that sport is both a victim and a contributor to climate change.
“Flooded pitches, rising temperatures, and unpredictable weather are disrupting competitions and training schedules,” he noted. “At the same time, the carbon footprint of mega sporting events rivals the electricity consumption of millions of households. We must act boldly.”
Kofi Adams hinted that the John Mahama-led administration will soon launch a new National Recreation Agency, tasked with leading a climate-conscious wellness movement.
Among its flagship programs will be National Recreation Day and National Aerobics Day, both designed to engage citizens in tree planting, clean-up campaigns, and climate-friendly sporting events.
The Minister also spoke passionately about addressing the environmental devastation caused by illegal small-scale mining, or galamsey.
In response, Ghana will develop community sports academies and green parks on degraded lands in collaboration with mining companies, offering young people alternative livelihoods through sport.
The Minister praised SUCCA Africa, GHALCA, and SPORTS20 for their role in advancing the Green Futball Initiative, which has brought climate issues into the heart of Ghana’s sports culture — from boardrooms to locker rooms.
“Through SUCCA Africa’s ESG frameworks, Ghana is positioning itself as a continental case study in sustainable football development,” he stated.
The forum also featured a compelling presentation by Prince Osisiadan, CEO of SUCCA Africa, who linked climate and biodiversity loss to the sustainability of sport itself.
He warned that without urgent action, sports would increasingly suffer from extreme weather cancellations, loss of natural venues and declining public health.
GHALCA President John Ansah echoed these sentiments, stating,
“The time for talk has passed; we must act decisively. African football has a unique opportunity to lead by example in sustainability. Our commitment to green practices will not only protect our environment but also inspire future generations to embrace eco-friendly sportsmanship.”
Stefan Wagner of Sports20, Germany, opined that the forum marks a turning point not just in conversation, but in collective commitment to climate action through sport.
