The government of Ghana under the performance tracker has listed the number of Astro Turfs constructed initiated and completed since it took power in 2017. Under sports infrastructure in the newly launched performance tracker, 106 astro turf’s have been constructed between 2017 to 2023. 77 Astro turfs have been completed and commissioned with 28 under construction and only one to undergo refurbishment.
In a quest to develop youth and sports development, the government initiated the construction of Astro Turfs across the country. The pitches are artificial grass surface mainly used for football related activities. Most of the Astro Turfs are situated in the central part of the designated communities and some instances in basic or senior high schools.
“At the end of 2016, Ghana had only 3 AstroTurf. As at June 2023, government has constructed 17 as part of efforts to increase sports facilities in the country. These projects were sponsored by Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, Jospong Group of Companies, Coastal Development Authority, Ghana Gas, Zongo Development Fund, Members of Parliament, National Youth Authority, Coastal Development Authority, FIFA, Government of Ghana and private Individuals” was stated on the performance tracker.
Though the construction of the astro turfs have been helpful, opinions have been divided on the Astro turfs and its effects on the players due to injury concerns. Most of the Astro Turfs are being used for Divion one and two league matches.
“The artificial we are doing in Ghana they told us that it is outmoded the grade they bring new ones every year. The ones we did is outmoded also they have one hybrid that is natural and artificial, and the rest are natural,” Deputy minister for youth and sports Evans Bobbie said after a visit to the King Mohammed football complex in Morrocco.
Due to the poor state of the Aliu Mahama Sports stadium in Tamale, Karela United adopted the Naa Sheriga Sports Complex in Nalerigu as their home grounds though the facility falls short of the standard to host an elite premier league match.
