NSA boss appeals to British High Commission to expedite visas for Ghanaian sports journalists ahead of 2026 Commonwealth Games

The Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has formally appealed to the British High Commission in Accra to consider increasing the approval of sports visas for Ghanaian journalists who intend to cover the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. The appeal was made during a media briefing organised by the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) at the Central Hotel in Ridge, Accra.

Speaking before a cross-section of sports administrators, corporate stakeholders, association and federation heads, past and current athletes—including Commonwealth gold medalists and multiple world boxing champion, Professor Azumah Nelson—Mr. Ankrah urged the media to take all necessary steps to facilitate a smooth visa application process. The NSA Director-General, who was appointed to the role in March 2025 following a distinguished career in sports journalism, shared his personal experience with Commonwealth Games coverage.

“I have attended several Commonwealth Games, including the 1998 edition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,” Mr. Ankrah recalled. “That was my first Commonwealth Games. Ghana secured five medals in Malaysia—one gold, one silver, and three bronze. The gold came from boxer Raymond ‘Ray’ Narh in the lightweight division, and I can tell you that media support was crucial to telling that story.”

The NSA boss encouraged journalists to follow due processes and submit their documents on time to ensure swift processing of their applications. He also advised media professionals to be circumspect in their reportage and to offer constructive criticism that protects and advances the brand of Ghanaian sports.

Mr. Ankrah further assured the gathering that he would leverage his good relations with the British High Commission to champion the cause of Ghanaian sports journalists. He praised the media for their dedication and promised the full support of the National Sports Authority as they carry out their duties in the lead-up to and during the Glasgow Games.

The event also served as the official launch of Team Ghana’s roadmap for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, with officials outlining strategic plans, athlete development programmes, and participation objectives. With the rallying call “We Dare To Win,” Team Ghana is expected to field approximately 40 athletes in athletics, boxing, cycling, judo, para‑athletics, para‑powerlifting, para‑swimming, and weightlifting.

The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games are scheduled to feature a 10‑sport programme, including six fully integrated Para Sports, and are expected to mark a significant milestone for Ghanaian athletes currently engaged in intensive training programmes.