Sports in Ghana Reduced to Political Tool, Says Dr. Ernest Koranteng
Chief Executive of The Business Africa Consulting Group Limited (The BAC Group), Dr. Ernest Koranteng, has criticised the over-politicisation of sports in Ghana, arguing that the sector has largely been used as a political instrument rather than developed as a sustainable economic venture.
Dr. Koranteng made the remarks in his closing address during the Sports Business Series, a seminar focused on exploring how sports can become a revenue-generating industry for clubs, businesses and government.
The event formed part of activities marking the fifth edition of the All Star Festival held on Friday, July 10, 2026.
“In Ghana, sports is more of a political tool,” Dr. Koranteng stated, highlighting what he described as the country’s failure to fully maximise the commercial potential of sports.
He explained that although sports continues to attract significant public interest and possesses the ability to create jobs, drive investment and support economic growth, limited strategic planning has prevented the sector from reaching its full potential.
According to the BAC Group CE, the focus on political gains has often overshadowed the need to build strong sports business structures capable of generating sustainable income for stakeholders.
Need for a shift towards sports commercialisation
Dr. Koranteng emphasised the need for a deliberate shift from viewing sports only through the lens of political visibility to treating it as a serious business venture.
He noted that successful global sports industries have been built around effective commercial models involving sponsorships, branding, media rights, merchandising and fan engagement.
He challenged stakeholders in Ghana’s sports ecosystem to adopt innovative approaches that would allow clubs and athletes to become financially independent rather than relying heavily on government support.
Sports Business Series seeks new direction
The Sports Business Series brought together industry experts, administrators and stakeholders to discuss ways of transforming sports into a tool for revenue generation.
The initiative, organised as part of the All Star Festival 2026, seeks to create conversations around the business side of sports and explore opportunities for investment, partnerships and sustainable development.
Dr. Koranteng’s contribution added to discussions on how Ghana can move beyond celebrating sporting achievements to creating structures that allow the sector to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The fifth edition of the All Star Festival continues to combine sporting activities with business and development-focused engagements aimed at repositioning sports as an economic asset.