Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ghanaian Times
Published on 2024-03-07 07:45:59
The President of the Ghana Karate-Do Federation, Nathaniel Johnson, expressed confidence in the ability of the karate-do team to perform well and bring pride to Ghana at the upcoming 13th African Games. This optimism was fueled by the recent arrival of competition equipment that was imported by the government specifically for the Games.
The equipment that arrived included Tatami mats, karate attires (gi) for both Kumite and Kata, shoes, bags, and LED screens for the Games venue, among other essential items. Mr. Johnson, speaking to the Times Sports, emphasized that the timely arrival of the equipment signifies the Federation’s preparedness for the competition, especially considering the previous doubts surrounding its arrival.
“This is great news not only for our Ghanaian Karatekas but also for the overall competition, as members of the African Karate Federation (AKF) and the World Karate Federation (WKF) were equally concerned about it,” Mr. Johnson stated. He also expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports for their role in facilitating the arrival and release of the equipment for the Games.
Karate initially faced exclusion from the African Games lineup, but the Ghana Karate-Do Federation (GKF) and the African Karate Federation (AFK) successfully advocated for its reinstatement. Mr. Johnson believes that the karate competition is a strong contender for winning medals for Ghana at the Games.
Leading up to the competition, the Federation organized a national championship followed by a randori session, where athletes competed against each other to determine the best in each weight category. Edmund Asante Amoako, a prominent karateka with a history of winning gold medals in Africa, is highlighted as a key medal prospect for the team. Other hopefuls mentioned by Mr. Johnson include Dickson Acolatse, Germain Vowotor, and female player Humu Zaba Yusif.
Prince Adjavon, the Secretary General of the Federation, confirmed the arrival of Tatami mats from the World Karate Federation, with the Ministry working diligently to ensure their clearance for the competition. The Karate competition is scheduled to take place from today until March 9 at the Ga Mashie Hall of the Trust Sports Emporium (TSE) in Bukom, Accra.
In conclusion, the Federation’s optimism, supported by the arrival of crucial equipment, sets the stage for a successful and competitive showing by the Ghanaian karate team at the 13th African Games. With a lineup of talented athletes and dedicated officials, Ghana is poised to shine in the karate competition and bring home medals from the prestigious multi-sport event.
Read the original article on Ghanaian Times
