Sports Minister Kofi Adams pushes for Climate-Resilient Sports Infrastructure at Cape Town Global Forum

The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, called for climate leadership in sports. He announced green initiatives at the Global Sports and Sustainability Forum 2025 in Cape Town.

Speaking to policymakers, sports executives, and climate advocates, he urged countries to rethink sports infrastructure. He believes it can promote environmental resilience and community development.

The event was hosted by SPORTS20 under the theme “Another World Is Possible.” It featured discussions on how sport can address global issues like climate change and biodiversity loss.

In his opening remarks, the Minister highlighted that sport is both affected by and contributes to climate change. He noted that flooded pitches and rising temperatures disrupt competitions. Additionally, mega sporting events have a carbon footprint comparable to millions of households' electricity use.

Kofi Adams announced plans for a new National Recreation Agency led by the John Mahama administration. This agency will focus on promoting a climate-conscious wellness movement.

Key programs will include National Recreation Day and National Aerobics Day. These events aim to engage citizens in tree planting and clean-up campaigns.

The Minister also addressed environmental damage from illegal small-scale mining, known as galamsey. Ghana plans to develop community sports academies and green parks on degraded lands with mining companies’ help. This initiative will provide young people with alternative livelihoods through sport.

He praised SUCCA Africa, GHALCA, and SPORTS20 for their work on the Green Futball Initiative. This initiative integrates climate issues into Ghana’s sports culture at all levels.

“Through SUCCA Africa’s ESG frameworks, Ghana aims to be a model for sustainable football,” he stated. The forum included a presentation by Prince Osisiadan, CEO of SUCCA Africa. He connected climate change and biodiversity loss to the future of sport.

He warned that without urgent action, extreme weather could lead to more cancellations in sports events. GHALCA President John Ansah agreed that immediate action is necessary.

He emphasized that African football has an opportunity to lead in sustainability efforts. Their commitment will protect the environment while inspiring future generations toward eco-friendly practices.

Stefan Wagner from Sports20 remarked that this forum represents a turning point for collective commitment to climate action through sport.