Nii Lante Vanderpuye: Ex-Sports Minister calls for independent body to manage Sports Fund

Former Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lartey Vanderpuye has urged the government to establish an independent commission to oversee the newly passed Sports Fund Bill, warning that political influence could undermine the fund’s objectives.

The bill, recently approved by Parliament and introduced by Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams, is designed to provide sustainable financing to support sports development nationwide.

Vanderpuye emphasized that the fund would be more effective if managed by an autonomous body of professionals with extensive experience in sports administration, rather than being controlled directly by a government ministry. He highlighted that such a structure would ensure objectivity, clear prioritization, and long-term sustainability.

He also stressed that funding should be tied to measurable performance targets. “We must give KPIs. For instance, boxing has been our best-performing sport. Investments should reflect expected outcomes. If certain targets aren’t met over five or ten years, funding should be adjusted accordingly,” Vanderpuye said.

The former minister underscored the need for competent, impartial management and warned against political interference. “We need strong, professional administrators to manage this fund. I wouldn’t want it handled by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation. An independent commission of sports experts is essential,” he noted.

He cautioned that political involvement could compromise fairness and professionalism, adding, “If the process becomes political, professionalism will be lost. This fund must operate independently and objectively, always in the best interest of Ghanaian sports.”

Vanderpuye concluded by calling for a strictly professional approach to managing the Sports Fund, as discussions continue on how best to implement the bill to ensure transparency, accountability, and a lasting impact on the country’s sporting landscape.