The HAAA Foundation in Accra is set to host the second edition of its flagship girls’ football gala in the Okaikoi South Constituency.
Dubbed the HAAA Foundation Football Gala, the event is open to female teams within the constituency and is scheduled to take place at the Accra Academy Astro Turf Park on July 23.
Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Harriet Anita Araba Abaidoo, told Times Sports over the weekend that the initiative is designed to promote youth development through sports.
She explained that the event is being organised in partnership with Ideal Ladies FC and DK-M. The maiden edition featured four teams from the constituency—Rock Ladies FC, Starlets Ladies FC, Christ Angels FC, and Ideal Ladies FC, who emerged champions.
Ms Abaidoo noted that the success of the inaugural tournament has sparked increased interest among female teams in the area, with expectations of higher participation in this year’s edition.
She, however, expressed concern over the country’s level of commitment to sports development, questioning whether enough effort is being made to harness its full potential.
According to her, although sports is often described as a major economic driver, there is little evidence to suggest the nation is fully committed to benefiting from it. She stressed the need for deliberate investment to unlock its value.
Ms Abaidoo further highlighted the role of sports in addressing unemployment, noting that it has the capacity to engage and empower many young people.
Also speaking, the CEO of defending champions Ideal Ladies FC, Dzomo Adzerkwei, expressed confidence in her team’s ability to retain the title, although she acknowledged that the competition would be tough.
This year’s edition will be held under the theme “Building diversity, equity and inclusivity for social capital and community development through sports.”