Mr. Osei Asibey, who has served as President for the past three years and seven months, says his decision is rooted in a firm belief that Africa Armwrestling stands at a critical turning point in its development. According to him, the next phase of growth requires experienced leadership capable of consolidating existing gains while introducing reforms that will position Africa more strongly within the global sporting community.

During his tenure, the Federation has recorded significant progress. Governance systems have been strengthened, administrative coordination improved, and compliance measures enhanced to align with international standards. The number of active member federations has increased, while continental competitions have expanded in scope and participation.

Under his leadership, Africa’s visibility and influence within the international Armwrestling fraternity have also grown. The Federation has worked to amplify the continent’s voice in global decision-making processes and ensure that African athletes are increasingly competitive on the world stage.

Despite these achievements, Mr. Osei Asibey acknowledges that more work remains to be done. He believes the Federation must deepen institutional reforms, reinforce transparency and accountability frameworks, and ensure that every member federation benefits from structured development support.

His campaign agenda for another term focuses on strengthening governance and institutional structures across member nations. He also plans to expand competitive platforms to create more opportunities for athletes at regional and continental levels.

Youth and grassroots development form a central pillar of his vision. Mr. Osei Asibey has emphasized the need to identify and nurture young talent across Africa while building sustainable pathways that support long-term athlete development.

He has also pledged to intensify efforts toward women’s participation and inclusion, recognizing the growing role of women in the sport and the importance of equal opportunity. In addition, he aims to mobilize strategic partnerships and sponsorships to provide financial stability and growth for the Federation.

Capacity building for member federations remains another priority. Mr. Osei Asibey believes empowering national bodies with administrative, technical, and governance expertise is critical to strengthening the overall structure of Armwrestling in Africa.

Calling for unity and collective purpose, he appealed to stakeholders across the continent to rally behind a shared agenda that prioritizes growth, integrity, and excellence. He also expressed gratitude to Ghanaians for their continued support throughout his leadership journey and urged them to continue backing his continental vision.

With his nomination officially filed, the upcoming AFA presidential contest is expected to shape the next chapter of Africa Armwrestling as the Federation seeks to consolidate its gains and chart a new path forward.

Credit: Ghana Armwrestling Federation 

A high-level delegation from SWAG, led by President Kwabena Yeboah, met with the Minister to discuss strategies for boosting Ghana’s sports development.

The delegation included Vice President Evelyn Nsiah Asare, General Secretary Charles Osei Asibey, Deputy General Secretary Kenneth Odeng Adade, Treasurer Owuraku Nsiah, and Women’s Commissioner Mavis Amanor.

SWAG, established in 1968, boasts over 1,000 members, including sports journalists, photojournalists, content creators, and presenters, and is an active member of the International Sports Press Federation (AIPS).

During the meeting, Yeboah commended Adams for his open-door policy, which has enabled stakeholders to contribute to the sector. He highlighted the Minister’s support for Ghana’s participation at the AIPS congress in Gambia, which garnered international recognition and underscored sports’ economic potential for Africa.

The discussion focused on the historic sports fund initiated by Adams, with Yeboah urging increased publicity and support for its growth, emphasizing grassroots development and the need to nurture sports beyond football.

Mr Adams appreciated SWAG’s role in shaping the sector’s future and committed to collaborating on training modules for sports journalists, recognizing the media’s pivotal role in promoting sports.

The Minister called for a unified effort to develop Ghana’s sports infrastructure and harness sports as a tool for national development, highlighting opportunities in the media space to attract investors and foster local talent.

This engagement marks a significant step forward in elevating Ghana’s sports industry, with SWAG and the Ministry working together to propel Ghanaian sports globally.

Credit: Elizabeth Alhassan 

The participants, drawn from the security services, civilian groups and Physical Education tutors, underwent training as part of the Federation’s broader strategy to introduce armwrestling to a wider audience and identify potential talents ahead of the African Armwrestling Championship, which Ghana is set to host.

The course was facilitated by seasoned technical official and Head of Armwrestling Referees for Africa, Mr. Husseini Akueteh Addy, with support from national athletes and certified referees.

Participants were taken through the rules and regulations of the sport, key terminologies, basic coaching methods, and the use of standard professional armwrestling equipment.

Speaking during the training, President of the Africa Armwrestling Federation, Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, highlighted the importance of the programme in strengthening Team Ghana.

“This training is part of the Federation’s strategy to identify talents and help shape them for Team Ghana ahead of the African Championship and the African Games next year. We know our strength in Ghana and want to build on it to go beyond what we have achieved in previous years. This is a continuous programme that will allow us to monitor your progress,” he said.

In an interview after the session, Mr Husseini Akueteh Addy explained that the course focused on building strong technical foundations, particularly among coaches.

“We are preparing to host the African Championship, which will also serve as a qualifier for the African Games. As technical officials, we must strengthen our structures, especially our coaches. Our focus is on schools and the security services, with the aim of developing more talents ahead of the championship,” he stated.

“This is just the foundation. We will organise a series of seminars, after which participants who show strong potential will be certified. They will then be exposed to more advanced technical training and a deeper understanding of the rules,” he said.

Explaining the urgency of the exercise, Mr Addy noted: “I need to do this quickly before competitions begin because, as Head Referee for Africa, I will be engaged outside the Ghana system. This is the time to marshal all available resources and quality materials for the team.”

One of the participants, Richard Boafo, a teacher at Wesley Grammar School, expressed satisfaction with the training and revealed plans to introduce the sport in his school.

It was a very good experience. I learned a lot about basic coaching techniques. Armwrestling is something we all grew up doing at home on ordinary tables, but now it has become a professional sport with specialised equipment. I now understand how to properly use these tools,” he said.

Asked how soon his school would begin producing athletes, he responded confidently: “Very soon. Once I return to school, I will introduce the sport to the students. Those who show interest and have the required physical attributes will be selected, and training will begin immediately.”

The Ghana Armwrestling Federation is optimistic that the initiative will unearth new talents, strengthen grassroots development, and position Ghana for greater success at upcoming continental competitions.

Credit: Graphic Online 

The ceremony took place at the Ministry’s conference room on Tuesday, during which he emphasized the committee’s crucial role in ensuring the event’s success.

In his keynote address, Hon. Kofi Adams highlighted Ghana’s commitment to promoting sports excellence and fostering continental unity.

“This championship is more than just about strength and competition, it also brings nations together and celebrating our diversity through sports,” he stated.

Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF), expressed confidence in Accra’s ability to host a world-class event, saying, “We aim to showcase Africa’s talent and hospitality.”

The newly appointed committee members, who took oaths of service, are:
– Mrs. Maame Afua Houageto (Ghana Tourism Authority) – Chairperson
– Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum (Kofikrom Pharmacy Ltd) – Vice Chairperson
– Mr. ACI Gordon Saah (Immigration Service – Security Ghana)
– Mr. Edwin Amankwah (Global Media Alliance)
– Mr. Gideon Hammond (Deputy Director General, F&A – NSA)
– Miss Jessica Kwarteng (Ministry of Sports and Recreation, Protocol Officer)
– Mr. Andre Ackah (Advertisers Association of Ghana)

The committee is set to work diligently to ensure the success of Africa’s premier armwrestling event in Accra in 2026.

Credit: Elizabeth Alhassan 

The announcement which has been welcomed by the Armwrestling world, affirms Ghana’s status as a hub and the continent’s epicenter for Armwrestling.

About 450 Armwrestlers from over 22 countries will converge in Accra, Ghana to battle for supremacy and to determine the best on the continent with power, passion and pride.

Crucially, the 2026 Africa Championship will serve as the official and primary qualifier for the Armwrestling event at the 2027 African Games hence top athletes from across Africa will descend on Accra, not just to claim continental medals, but to secure the essential slots needed to compete in the highly anticipated 2027 African Games.

The stakes are incredibly high, promising fierce and tactical battles on the table as Ghana’s Golden Arms, prepares to defend its continental legacy on home soil against arch rivals Egypt, Nigeria and lately Benin and Cameroon.

Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) and the Armwrestling Federation of Africa (AFA), has guaranteed a world-class organizing effort. “We are committed to delivering an outstanding championship,” stated Mr. Osei Asibey. “This is our opportunity to showcase the best of Ghanaian hospitality and organizational prowess, while providing a platform where Africa’s finest can secure their qualification for the 2027 African Games. We invite the whole nation to come and witness the raw power and skill of the continent’s strongest athletes.”

With the championship now confirmed for April 2026, the countdown begins for the ultimate test of strength and endurance as pullers across Africa demonstrates their unmatched dominance and ability to perform under pressure.

Africa is Coming, and Accra is ready to crown the new Africa Armwrestling Champions and determine the qualifiers for the 2027 African Games!

Credit : www.ghanaarmwrestling.com

The African Glory: A Cascade of 55 Medals

The journey of triumph for Ghana’s armwrestling team in 2025 began with the “Battle for Independence” championship held in Accra on March 7, 2025. This annual event, organized by the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, brought together top athletes from Ghana and neighboring countries like Nigeria, Benin, and Togo to compete in various weight categories.

The tournament featured standout performances from Ghana’s finest, including Africa’s top female armwrestler, Grace Minta, Mabel Yeboah, Daniel Acquah, and Henry Otoo. Ghana’s team showcased incredible strength and skill, winning medals and bragging rights.

Ghana confirmed its continental supremacy three months later in Abuja, Nigeria, at the 14th African Armwrestling Championship in July. Against fierce continental competition, the Golden Arms delivered a commanding performance to secure an astonishing 55 medals, comprising 26 gold, 20 silver, and 9 bronze. This remarkable haul earned Ghana a commendable second-place finish overall, following host nation Nigeria.

The squad, led by the evergreen world champion Grace Mintah of the Ghana Police Service and Edward Yamoah Asamoah of the Ghana Immigration Service, demonstrated a formidable blend of veteran experience and youthful exuberance. Their collective resilience and determination, even when faced with resource constraints, were a powerful evident to the sport’s consistent growth under the GAF’s leadership.

The championship was not just a medal-winning spree; it was a critical step in qualifying athletes for the 2025 World Championship and the 2027 All-African Games. Mabel Yeboah, Blessed Abekah Nunoo, Daniel Acquah, Henry Otoo, Charles Osei Asibey Jr., Joshua Yeboah, Godwin Sackey, Florence Boakye etc were dominant.

Global Statement: Medalists on the World Stage

Riding the wave of African success, a determined contingent of 3 Golden Arms travelled to Albena, Bulgaria, for the 2025 World Armwrestling Championship. Facing the world’s elite pullers, the team made a significant statement by clinching three medals, two silver and one bronze.

Mabel Yeboah, a Civilian Prison Officer, was the star performer, securing silver in the Youth Women’s 60kg left arm event and a bronze in the right arm event. Blessed Abeka Nunoo of the Ghana Immigration Service, a rising star, historically claimed a silver medal in the Junior 60kg right arm division whilst Daniel Acquah who missed his weight category was a delight to watch competing to place 5th in the Youth 75kg.

These achievements accentuate the GAF’s strategic development program, proving that Ghana’s strength is not limited to Africa but can contend with the best on the international platform.

The dedication of the athletes, backed by the federation’s tireless efforts, translated into tangible global recognition.

Para-Armwrestling Excellence: Champions of the West Africa Para Games

In a further demonstration of commitment to inclusive sports, the Ghana Armwrestling contingent also shone brightly at the inaugural West Africa Para Games in Abeokuta, Nigeria, in December.

Leading the charge was Tahiru Haruna, who pulled his way to two gold medals, with teammates Frank Fudzi and Isaac Nii Ayitey contributing vital bronze medals. Their exceptional performance highlighted the deep well of talent within the para-sports community and reaffirmed the GAF’s role in championing all facets of the sport.

The Zenith of Achievement:

The collective success of the Golden Arms across continental, global, and para-sport platforms did not go unnoticed by the nation’s sports media. Capping off an extraordinary year, the Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) was rightfully named as the first on the Top Federations list at the 50th Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Awards.

This prestigious recognition is a fitting tribute to the GAF’s consistent medal-winning performances, exceptional administration, and its impactful role in positioning Ghana as a major force in international Armwrestling.

Under the leadership of its President, Charles Osei Asibey, who was also re-elected as Vice President of the World Armwrestling Federation, the GAF board and workforce have proven to be a model of excellence, setting a high standard for sports administration and athletic achievement in Ghana.

An Expression of Profound Gratitude: Thank You to Our Esteemed Partners

The unprecedented success of the Golden Arms in 2025, culminating in a Top Federation award from SWAG, was not achieved by the athletes alone. It was made possible by the belief and critical support of our corporate and governmental partners.

The Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) extends its deepest appreciation to all our sponsors and institutions for their timely and dedicated contributions that powered our campaigns at the African Championship, the World Championship, and the West Africa Para Games.

National Health Insurance Authority (NPA), Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), National Petroleum Authority (NPA), OmniBSIC Bank, Glico Life, Ghana Civil Aviation Aviation (GCAA), Stanbic Bank Ghana, National Lottery Authority (NLA), Security Agencies as Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Prison Service, Kofikrom Pharmacy Limited, Twellium Industries Limited, the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), National Sports Authority (NSA), Ministry of Sports and Recreation (MoSR), The Hope Brand (THB) and the entire Ghanaian media for the great support.

Their investment was not just in athletes, but in the youth, discipline, and national pride that the Golden Arms represent. We are committed to continuing this successful partnership in 2026 as we prepare to make history again.

On behalf of the GAF Board, the Executive Council, and all our medal-winning athletes, we say a heartfelt thank you to Ghana!

Credit : www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

Ghana’s Golden Arms’ gallantry and history making at the global event with an impressive haul of two silver medals and one bronze was engineered by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and the Ghana Armwrestling Federation is grateful.

Mabel Yeboah, civilian officer with the Ghana Prisons Service, who had a first time world championship experience became the toast of fans as she demolished opponents from Turkey, Sweden, Germany, France, Italy, Georgia, Khazastan etc. to win bronze medal in the 60kg youth women left arm and silver for the right arm for same category.

Immigration Officer Blessed Abeka Nunoo, after a tough competition on day one, revised her skill and adopted the hook style to bring pride not only to Ghana but to the entire African continent by making her way to the finals to win another silver medal for Ghana.

The display of dexterity by the Golden Arms was the talk of the tournament as many coaches and federation heads from different part of the world applauded their style and technique they adopted to win various battles. Match after match, they had standing ovation as they executed their mandate to win.

Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, who was super enthused with the performance of the Golden Arm, attributed the success to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and expressed his gratitude to the NHIA and the NHIS insurance scheme for their immense support, commending them for their key contribution in ensuring team Ghana participated.

He noted that the support played a significant role in the training and preparation, boosting the team’s momentum and ensuring a succesful competition. He acknowledged the numerous instances of support the NHIA has extended to the Golden Arms, describing the Authority as a cornerstone of the team’s growth and development.

President Osei Asibey has called on corporate Ghana and state institutions to emulate the NHIA steps to enhance sports development and participation, extending appreciation to Ghana Tourism Authority, OmniBSIC Bank, Ghana Olympic Committee, The National Sports Authority, National Lottery Authority, the National Petroleum Authority, Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Prisons Service, Ghana Police Service etc for their support in the July Africa Armwrestling championships where Ghana won 55 medals.

The Golden Arm on return from the World Championship is now focused on the 2026 Africa Armwrestling Championship to be hosted by Ghana in Accra and the 2027 African Games in Egypt.

Delegation leader Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, Hon. Joseph Cudjoe and Team Manager Abbas Sulley, have been applauded for skillfully ensuring team Ghana gets worked so hard to win a medal.

Credit: www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

With his impressive achievements, exceptional leadership skills, tireless dedication, profound expertise in the sport and global recognition of his leadership, the congress unanimously endorsed Mr. Osei Asibey’s nomination for the re-election to renewed mandate.

“I am giddy, elated and poised to further influence the development and promotion of Armwrestling to new heights, leveraging on my network to drive growth, innovation, and excellence in the sport” president Osei Asibey stated after his election.

Mr. Osei Asibey’s journey to the top has been marked by perseverance and hard work. As the President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, he has been instrumental in promoting the sport in Ghana and beyond. His vision for Armwrestling extends beyond borders, and his commitment to excellence has earned him the respect of his peers worldwide.

In 2022, Osei Asibey was voted as the President of Africa Armwrestling, ascended to the World Armwrestling board, same year, confirming his growing impact on the global stage. Since his election to key positions in 2022, he has been instrumental in shaping the growth and development of armwrestling, both in Africa and globally, also ensuring the recognition of Armwretling in the African Games

As Vice President of WAF, Osei Asibey will work closely with the President and other officials to promote armwrestling worldwide. He will also play a key role in developing strategies to increase participation, improve competition standards, and enhance the overall growth of the sport. With his wealth of experience and knowledge, Osei Asibey is well-equipped to make a lasting impact on the world of armwrestling.

Osei Asibey’s continued leadership, makes the future of armwrestling looks bright, and Ghana is poised to play an increasingly important role in the global armwrestling arena.

As Vice President of WAF, Mr. Osei Asibey is expected to continue promoting arm wrestling in Ghana and beyond. His vision for the sport is ambitious, and his leadership will undoubtedly inspire others to work towards a common goal.

Credit: Ghana Armwrestling

The event promises to be an electrifying display of strength, skill, and patriotism, as Ghana’s top arm wrestlers face off in a battle for supremacy with their counterparts from neighbouring countries. The tournament will feature various weight categories, with athletes competing for medals, prizes, and the ultimate bragging rights.

The Independence Day Armwrestling will feature guest pullers from Nigeria, Benin, and Togo, adding an international flavour to the competition. The foreign athletes will compete alongside their Ghanaian counterparts, making for a thrilling and unpredictable independence day showdown.

And in a major coup, the Ghana Armwrestling Federation has confirmed that a star-studded lineup of Ghana’s best armwrestlers will be on the bill, including Africa’s best female armwrestler, Grace Minta, who will take on the best female armwrestlers from Ghana and West Africa.

Others are Mabel Yeboah, a rising star in Ghanaian armwrestling; Daniel Acquah, a seasoned armwrestler with a reputation for delivering thrilling matches; Henry Otoo, a dominant force in Ghanaian armwrestling; and Prince Affum, a fan favourite known for his incredible strength and technique.

Charles Osei Asibey Jnr, the son of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation President, who will be looking to make a name for himself in the sport, Afia Kumah, a formidable Armwrestler from the Ghana Police Service, and Issah Kunya, a top Armwrestler from the 3C Club.

Meanwhile, a strong contingent of Nigerian arm wrestlers, namely Sarah Matthews, Blessing Ogunbure, Olubisi Oyewusi, Mausi Zanu, Aniedu Godwin, and Chinedu Isama, will also be competing in the challenge.

Benin will also be represented by a talented team of arm wrestlers made up of African Games double gold medallist Marie Rose Laleye, Sébastien Kpaloko, and Marcel Vitchoedo.

Togo will also be sending a strong team, led by Amou Amouzou Honoré and Tchagbeleou Razak.

President Charles Osei Asibey of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation has disclosed that “this year’s independence armwrestling challenge is going to be bigger and better than previous events. We have a strong lineup of athletes, both local and international, and we’re expecting a thrilling competition that will showcase the best of West African Armwrestling.”

The “Battle for Independence” armwrestling challenge will be broadcast LIVE on TV, bringing the excitement and drama of the competition to living rooms across the country.

The “Battle for Independence” armwrestling tournament put together by the Ghana Armwrestling Federation is part of Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience for sports fans and patriots alike as Ghana witnesses the ultimate showdown in armwrestling!

Credit: Ghana Armwrestling Federation

The championship attracted over 200 pullers from Togo, Nigeria, Ghana, and Benin in various categories.

Blessed Naa Abeka Nunoo, currently ranked World No. 5 and Africa’s No. 1 in the youth 60kg women category, delivered a stunning performance. Despite being significantly lighter, she defeated two formidable Togolese pullers Ako Assoli (86kg) and Charite Nukunu (94kg) in the finals to win Gold

Henry Otoo and Daniel Acquah also put up an impressive shows, battling their way to clash at the final of the men’s 70 kg event, claiming gold and silver respectively.

Credit: Ghana Armwrestling