The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Madam Linda Akweley Ocloo, has opened a state-of-the-art FIFA-standard Astroturf at the New Gbawe Cluster of Schools, urging the youth to take full advantage of the facility to develop their talents and strive for excellence.

The project, funded by the government through the Coastal Development Authority (CODA), was executed as a public-private partnership with Oxygen Capital Limited as the majority shareholder, alongside support from the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly.

Speaking at the opening ceremony last Friday, Madam Ocloo emphasized that the facility, which accommodates over 500 spectators and features modern changing rooms with showers and a cafeteria, is poised to become a breeding ground for future sports stars.

She called on all stakeholders to ensure its proper maintenance for the benefit of future generations.

She further explained that a structured partnership agreement among Oxygen Capital Limited, the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly, land grantors, and CODA relieves the Government of Ghana from the financial burden of maintaining or rehabilitating the field, ensuring its long-term sustainability without reliance on public funds.

“Sports, particularly football, serves as a unifying force in our communities.

It has the potential to inspire our youth, create jobs, and instil discipline.

I urge the community to safeguard this facility,” she stated.

The Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, commended Oxygen Capital Limited for prioritizing community welfare over profit-making.

He stressed the importance of ensuring that local students and residents continue to benefit from the facility, even as it meets FIFA’s highest standards and attracts external players.

“We must reach a consensus on how to utilize the field effectively so that residents of Weija-Gbawe are not deprived of access,” he noted, expressing gratitude to Gbawe Manye Naa Yaaniede II and traditional leaders for their unwavering support throughout the project.

Mr. Moses Attobrah, Chief Executive of Oxygen Capital Limited, announced that schoolchildren would have free access to play 90-minute games on the turf twice a week, along with clubs that previously used the field.

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to development without limiting local access.

“We aim to work closely with the children to identify talent.

Those who excel will have the opportunity to join an academy focused on football, music, and vocational training. For the talented youth of New Gbawe, this is just the beginning—we are committed to your development and will support you on your journey to greatness,” he assured.