Ghana Exim Bank has officially commissioned a new astro turf park at Hogbe Park in Anloga, Volta Region. This facility, named the Awoamefia Togbui Sri III Astro Turf Park, marks a significant milestone in the Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and its 10th-anniversary celebrations. The project aims to promote youth empowerment and community development in the area.
The ultra-modern facility, constructed to international standards, replaces the outdated Hogbe Park. Mr. Sylvester Adinam Mensah, Deputy Chief Executive of Ghana Exim Bank, stated that the project represents a deliberate investment in a community that previously lacked a modern venue for competitive football and organized sporting activities. The Bank carefully assessed the proposal for the astro turf project, finding it credible and essential for evolving sporting standards.
This initiative fits into a broader national effort to improve sports infrastructure and foster local economic growth through community projects. Modern sports facilities can serve as catalysts for development, attracting investment and creating opportunities. Ghana has seen increasing interest in upgrading community sports venues to meet contemporary needs and support talent development across various regions.
Mr. Mensah highlighted that a well-managed sports facility can generate revenue, create employment opportunities, and attract visitors. He explained that the facility would support year-round sporting activities, regardless of weather conditions, and significantly reduce maintenance costs associated with natural grass pitches. He also noted its potential as a suitable venue for training programs, tournaments, and inter-community competitions, thereby boosting local commerce.
The Bank has established a management committee to oversee the day-to-day operations of the facility. Mr. Mensah stressed that effective governance is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the park. He expressed the Bank’s expectation that the committee would maintain proper records and ensure responsible access to preserve the facility for future generations. This commitment extends beyond the commissioning, with Ghana Exim Bank pledging to monitor the facility's use.
Togbui Sri III, the Overlord of Anlo State, expressed profound gratitude to Ghana Exim Bank for selecting Anloga for this CSR project. He described the facility as a transformative development for the community. Togbui Sri III, on behalf of the chiefs, queen mothers, and people of Anlo Dukor, pledged the traditional leadership's commitment to ensuring the proper maintenance of the park. He emphasized its role in nurturing young sporting talents and providing a modern recreational center.
Madam Sandra Seyram Kpedor, District Chief Executive for Anloga, echoed these sentiments, calling the astro turf project a major investment in youth development, sports, and community growth. She expressed confidence that the facility would provide a vital platform for young people to develop their talents and pursue their aspirations. The Bank also acknowledged the support from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, regional and district authorities, contractors, technical personnel, and the people of Anloga during the project's implementation.
The commissioning ceremony was a colourful event, attended by Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, Awadada of Anlo, other chiefs and queen mothers of the Anlo Traditional Council, officials of Ghana Exim Bank, and representatives from the Anloga and Keta Municipal Assemblies. Residents who spoke to the Ghana News Agency thanked the Bank for the initiative and commended Mr. Mensah, a native of the area, for his contribution to bringing the project to Anlo. This project underscores the potential for corporate social responsibility to drive tangible economic and social benefits at the local level.