Accra, June 25, 2025 — A high-powered delegation from World Bowls are in Ghana to support the official launch of the sport in Ghana and across West Africa.
The delegation, led by World Bowls President, Mr. Brett O’Reily paid a courtesy call on the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah. During the meeting, Mr. Ankrah expressed Ghana’s excitement and readiness to host both national and international bowls competitions, highlighting available venues and the country’s interest in the sport.
The visitors emphasized the importance of local collaboration in growing the game, stating that without agencies like the NSA, the launch would not be possible. Brett O’Reily praised Ghana for its hospitality and positive energy, adding that bowls is a sport for all regardless of age or ability and one that builds both community and competition.
The President of the International Bowls for the Disabled (IBD), Mr. Owen James shared his personal story, noting that his physically challenged son and visually impaired niece were his inspiration. “Bowls is not just a sport, it becomes a lifestyle,” he said, stressing the inclusivity and lifelong value of the game.
Speaking at the gathering, Madam Sue Beatt, an Executive Board Member of World Bowls, shared her excitement at being in Ghana for the first time, stating: “This experience will stay in my mind for a very long time.” She also expressed optimism about bowls spreading across Africa.
“Currently played in six African countries, World Bowls aims to expand its reach to all 52 nations on the continent” said representative of World Bowls Africa, Mr. David Hamer. He noted that bowls can be introduced in schools and communities without the need for expensive infrastructure, making it accessible and sustainable.
Mr. Ankrah described bowls as more than a game. “Everybody has made a very rich influence and clearly, bowls is a lifestyle, not just a sport. In the next few years, we will see what bowls can become if we remain consistent and grow in all areas, with the right support.”
He thanked the delegation for their visit and reaffirmed NSA’s support for the sport. “Ghana is proud to be part of this journey,” he said. “We look forward to working together to grow bowls and create new opportunities through sports.”
The delegation is expected to participate in the official launch of the Ghana Bowls Federation set to happen on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at the Media Centre of the Accra Sports Stadium, marking a historic milestone for the country and the continent.
Also in attendance were, Charles Obeng Amofah (President, Gh. Bowls Fed), Dominic Otuo Boateng (Ghana Bowls), Akosua Dzegu (Ghana Bowls), Patricia Osei (Ghana Bowls), Ossom Dede Phillipine (Ghana Bowls), Daniel Offei (Ghana Bowls), Kweku Apenteng Appiah (Ghana Bowls), Mustapha Better (Ghana Bowls), Frederick Marco (Ghana Bowls), Yaw Gyamfi (COO, NSA) and Sharon Odoi (NSA).
Story by,
Sharon Odoi
NSA-PR
25/06/2025