Sports
Strength and Heritage: Reviving the spirit of traditional wrestling
Shea-wrestling may not be considered a popular sport in Ghana but in areas like Gonjaland, it can attract the masses.
Hundreds gather to cheer their favourites with chants, drumming, and sing traditional songs, providing entertainment to the local folks.
Shea-wrestling is another form of traditional wrestling that has taken centre stage among Gonjas.
The ancient sport, which dates back to centuries, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, drawing crowds from all corners of the country and getting the attention of both local and international media.
Shea-wrestling, deeply rooted in Gonja culture, is more than just a sport. It is a symbolic practice that blends physical prowess with spirituality, making it a unique and cherished tradition.
In recent years, however, it has evolved from a rural pastime into a national sport, with attempt to elevate it.
The sport has retained its traditional elements, where wrestlers still seek support from their clans, and matches are often accompanied by drumming, singing, and dancing.
Speaking to the Executive Director of Shea-Wrestling GH, Mr Habibu Muftawu, he noted that wrestlers are more than just athletes; they are celebrities. Wrestlers like Alhassan Abdul Mugis Dawuni and Salifu Abdul Mugis have become household names, celebrated for their strength, agility, and charisma.
He added that the wrestlers not only dominate the arena but also command significant influence off the field, with endorsements, social media followings, and appearances in popular culture, including the recent All-African Games.
Despite the financial challenges facing the resurgence of wrestling, Mr Muftawu explained that the sport is gradually generating revenue through wrestlers, merchandise, and tourism.
“The sport plays a crucial role in promoting social cohesion. In a region with diverse ethnic groups and languages, it serves as a unifying force, fostering a sense of shared identity and cultural pride,” he said.
Despite its modernisation, efforts are being made to preserve the traditional aspects of shea-wrestling.
Both Alhassan Abdul Mugis Dawuni and Salifu Abdul Mugis, who recently participated in the African Games in Accra, remarked that the exposure of competing on such a stage was a great reward, aside the financial benefits.
From Geoffrey Buta, Buipe
Sports
Black Starlets arrives in Morocco on U-17 AFCON mission …FA boss charges team to make Ghana proud
The Black Starlets, the national U-17 male team, have safely arrived in Casablanca ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The team departed Accra on Wednesday, travelling with a 35-man contingent made up of 21 players and 14 officials, all focused on delivering a strong campaign on the continental stage.
They completed a smooth five-hour flight to Morocco, where final preparations will continue before the tournament kicks off.
The technical team is expected to fine-tune tactics and build cohesion among the squad as they gear up for the competition.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Mr Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, was present at the Accra International Airport to bid farewell to the team.
Speaking during a brief farewell at the Airport, the FA President urged the team to carry a ‘never say die’ spirit into the competition.
President Simeon-Okraku emphasised the importance of mental strength and unity, particularly in difficult moments during matches. His message was inspired by the team’s recent friendly encounters against Cote d’Ivoire, where they bounced back strongly after an initial defeat.
“I’m very happy that when you lost to Cote d’Ivoire in your first game during your friendly matches, you were able to bounce back—not only to dominate but to outscore them in the second game,” he said. “I read a lot of meaning into that, and I want all of you to keep that in your heads—that, it’s not over until it’s all over,” he added.
The FA president stressed that the ability to respond positively to setbacks would be crucial in a tournament as competitive as the AFCON.
He encouraged the players to stay united and support one another when the pressure intensifies on the continental stage.
“When the chips are down, that’s when we need to hold each other together,” Okraku added. “So go out there and make Ghana proud.”
Ghana will compete in Group D alongside Algeria, Senegal, and South Africa, with their opening match scheduled for Thursday, May 14.
Twenty-three (23) players have been called up for this month’s international friendly against Mexico.
The squad is composed of star players from the domestic league and European leagues who are closely monitored by Coach Carlos Queiroz, as well as U-23 players who will soon represent Ghana in the upcoming Olympic Games qualifiers.
Notable names include Majeed Ashimeru, Felix Afena-Gyan, Razak Simpson, and Birmingham City’s Ibrahim Osman.
Ashimeru returns to action after a long spell on the sidelines due to a muscle injury that limited his appearances at both club and national level.
Also in the team is Felix Afena-Gyan, whose last appearance for Ghana was in May last year when he featured against Trinidad and Tobago in the Unity Cup in London.
Barcelona B’s Abdul Aziz Issah, Ebenezer Annan of AS Saint-Étienne, Ibrahim Osman of Birmingham City, and Paul Reverson of Ajax FC have also been included in the squad.
Midfielder Salim Adams, one of the key players for Ghana Premier League leaders Medeama SC, leads the group of home-based players.
Others are Heart of Lions’ Ebenezer Abban, Ebenezer Adade of Dreams FC, and Nations FC captain Razak Simpson. Ghana will travel to Mexico for the international friendly on Friday, May 22, 2026.
