Ghana’s Golden Shuttlers have received a warm reception from key sports stakeholders following their impressive five-medal return from competitions in Cairo, Egypt, with promises of support to sustain the growth of badminton.

The seven-member junior team who arrived back home last Friday and officials of the Ghana Badminton Association (BAG), led by President Evans Yeboah, paid courtesy calls on Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) President Richard Kofi Akpokavie, Ghana Sports Fund Administrator Dr David Kofi Wuaku and Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) President Kwabena Yeboah.

The team won four medals at the All-Africa Under-19 Championships — one silver and three bronze — before securing the gold Team Cheers Award in the 2026 BWF World Junior Championships, becoming the first African country to win the accolade.

Mr Akpokavie congratulated the players and urged them to set their sights on senior-level success, while promising to explore opportunities for specialised training in badminton powerhouses such as China, Indonesia, India and Malaysia.

“This is only the U-19 stage, you must be aiming at senior level,” he advised, stressing that education and sport should complement each other in shaping their futures.

Dr Wuaku challenged BAG to translate the team’s promise into a sustainable development programme through practical, costed proposals covering junior development, equipment, coaching and international exposure.

“Talent alone does not win championships; it must be backed by investment, opportunity and the right structures,” he said, assuring the association that proposals would be considered within the Fund’s mandate and available resources.

SWAG chief Kwabena Yeboah praised the players for excelling despite limited support and pledged the sports media’s commitment to telling their stories.

“You made us proud with the little support you receive, you put smiles on our faces,” he said, urging the players to maintain their discipline, commitment and dedication.

BAG president Evans Yeboah expressed appreciation for the stakeholders’ recognition and support, highlighting the medals, international exposure and opportunities gained by the young players. He said the association would continue working to build a strong system capable of producing champions for generations.

He stressed that the courtesy calls mark the beginning of further engagements with stakeholders, scholarships, media partnerships, Asian training exposure and support for the association’s Mission 2032 ambitions among the priorities.

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 visit took place at the Borteyman Sports Complex, where GBA President, Mr. Evans Yeboah, accompanied by Executive Committee members Mrs. Evelyn Nsiah Asare and Miss Sefacor Sembia, interacted with the players and the technical team.

As a show of support ahead of the championship, the delegation presented the team with water, drinks, fruits, and snacks.

Addressing the players, Mr Evans Yeboah explained the purpose of the visit, stating: “We are here this morning as a board to check on your welfare and also to encourage and motivate you as you prepare for the journey ahead. It is important for us to be close to you and to let you know that we are fully behind you in the days leading to the championship.”

Mrs Evelyn Nsiah Asare reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to the team, saying: “On behalf of the board, we want you to know that we have your interest at heart and we support everything you are doing.

Adu-Mintah demonstrated resilience and skill on his path to the Men’s Singles quarterfinals. After a dominant win over Egypt’s Anas Eslam (21-13, 21-12) in the Round of 32, he then faced a tough challenge from the UAE’s Zeeshan Backer in the round of 16. In a thrilling three-game battle, Adu-Mintah clinched a nail-biting victory with a score of 21-15, 19-21, 22-20.

His impressive run continues today as he is set to face Mayank Bharadwaj of India for a spot in the semifinals.

Adding to his success, Adu-Mintah, alongside partner Rachael Quarcoo, has also powered through to the Mixed Doubles quarterfinals. The Ghanaian duo will face a team from Egypt, keeping the nation’s hopes alive for a medal in both categories at this crucial Youth Olympic qualifying event.

“Obapomba’s performance is a testament to his hard work and dedication,” said Ghana Badminton President, Yeboah Evans.

“Reaching the quarter-finals in two events against such strong international competition is a monumental achievement and a proud moment for Ghanaian badminton.”

Credit: Ghana Badminton

The 21-day event, held at the cutting-edge Borteyman Sports Complex, showcased thrilling matches in the U-15, U-19, and senior divisions, drawing global attention to Ghana’s rising badminton prowess.

Ghana’s Golden Triumph

The host nation’s athletes delivered electrifying performances, topping the medal table with 12 gold medals—a testament to Ghana’s growing influence in world badminton.

The final day saw intense competition in mixed doubles, women’s doubles, men’s doubles, and women’s singles, with Ghana adding two bronze medals in the women’s doubles through the pairs:

• Moslena Ama Korama Adu & Rachael Quarcoo
• Jessica Lomotey & Charity Naah

Global Standouts

While Ghana celebrated its historic haul international stars also dazzled:

• Indonesia dominated the mixed doubles (Bimo Prasetyo & Arlya Nabila Thesa Munggaran) and women’s doubles (Isyana Syahira Meida & Rinjani Kwinara Nastine).

• India and Kazakhstan shared men’s doubles bronze, while Indonesia’s Thalita Ramadhani Wiryawan claimed gold in women’s singles.

Leadership Praise for a Flawless Event

Mr. Evans Yeboah, President of the Ghana Badminton Federation, hailed the athletes and all stakeholders.

“This championship has been a milestone for Ghana. Our athletes’ dedication has gained the necessary Olympic ranking points, thus ensuring qualification towards the 2026 Youth Olympic Games and 2028 Olympic Games,” he said.

“The seamless execution of the event reflects our federation’s commitment to elevating badminton globally,” he emphasised.

“The success of the Badminton Grand Slam- with 1 world qualifier and two Olympic Qualifiers, with 78 Countries in total attendance, sets a new standard for future tournaments- and Ghana as a preferred hosting nation with our model infrastructure legacy”

Looking Ahead

With this record-breaking performance, Ghana has firmly established itself as a badminton powerhouse, inspiring a new generation of players.

The federation now turns its focus within its 2032 strategic plan to nurturing talent and hosting more world-class events.

Credit: Michael Obeng

Organized by the Ghana Badminton Federation, the tournament provided a competitive platform for the nation’s top players while offering them a chance to improve their national rankings.

The one-day event featured three doubles categories: mixed doubles, men’s doubles, and women’s doubles.

Mixed Doubles:

Adu Mintah Obapomba and Ama Koramah Adu Moslena delivered a dominant performance in the finals, defeating Amofa Andy and Charity Naah to claim gold.

Leslie Nii Adote Addo and Nantuo Prospera secured bronze, while Quarcoo Daniel and Feng Jiaqi finished fourth.

Women’s Doubles:

Quarcoo Racheal and Hilda Hectornia Napour Yengnone triumphed over Ama Koramah Adu Moslena and Nantuo Prospera to take first place.

Stephanie Bequine and Eduam Jennifer earned bronze, with Rosemond Amasah and Margaret Sarpei placing fourth.

Men’s Doubles:

Tetteh Ruben and Francis Shang emerged victorious after a hard-fought final against Abdul-Samad Ahmad and Korampong Ebenezer.

Amofa Andy and Adu Mintah Obapomba claimed bronze, while Aaron Tamakloe and Ruddock Quarcoo finished fourth.

Team Ghana Selected for Grand Slam Events

Following the tournament, the Ghana Badminton Federation announced the national contingent for upcoming international competitions, including key qualifiers and championships:

1. Africa AirBadminton Championships (July 3–6) – A crucial World Cup qualifier where Ghana will compete for a spot in the global tournament.

2. Junior Mixed Team Championships (August 1–3) – A team-based event showcasing Ghana’s rising young talents.

3. Junior Individual Championships (August 4–6) – An opportunity for junior players to shine in singles and doubles categories.

4. Junior AirBadminton Championships (August 6–7) – A fast-paced format testing agility and precision.

5. JE Wilson Ghana International Series (August 11–17) – A prestigious tournament attracting top regional and international players for the Olympic qualifying event.

The selected athletes will undergo intensive training as they prepare to represent Ghana on the continental and global stage. The federation expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver strong performances and elevate Ghana’s standing in international badminton.

With the National Doubles Tournament setting the tone for an action-packed season, badminton fans can look forward to more thrilling matches as Ghana’s finest compete for glory in the coming months.

Credit: Ghana Badminton Association

A Strategic Appointment for Global Sports Development

The International Sports Institute (ISI) is a leading global think tank focused on sports policy, innovation, and sustainable development. Mr. Yeboah’s role on the Advisory Board will focus on:

• Financial Sustainability in Sports – Advising on funding models for African and Europe’s National Federations and grassroots development.
• Sports Tourism & Economic Growth – Leveraging his expertise in Ghana’s sports tourism initiatives.
• Good Governance & Compliance – Promoting transparency and accountability in sports administration.

A Career of Impact

Evans Yeboah brings over 19 years of experience as a Management Accountant, former Vice President of the Ghana Olympic Committee, Chair, Finance-Badminton Africa and Vice President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) and Ghana’s celebrated multiple Chef De Mission & Team Leader Roles since the 2014 African Youth Games.

His leadership has been instrumental in:

• Financial Restructuring – Stabilizing the GOC’s fiscal operations during his tenure as Finance Chair.
• Sports Development – Advocating for inclusive funding for teams an example since becoming African Badminton, Chair-Finance
• Corporate Partnerships – Securing sponsorships for Ghanaian athletes and federations.

Statements of Endorsement

Prof. Professor Oluwaseun Olanrewaju Omotayo, ISI Chairman:

“Evans Yeboah’s blend of financial acumen and sports governance expertise at the highest level, having been Vice President, of the Ghana Olympic Committee, Chair, of the Finance Committee, and Chair, of the Finance, Africa Badminton Confederation, managing 51 countries’ finances and an adjunct lecturer for notable business schools, aligns perfectly with ISI’s mission to drive sustainable sports ecosystems worldwide. His African perspective will be invaluable.”

Evans Yeboah:

“This appointment is a call to amplify Africa’s voice in global sports policy. I’m committed to advancing equitable funding, youth empowerment, and Africa’s rising sports tourism sector.”

Looking Ahead

Mr. Yeboah’s first advisory mandate will focus on developing ISI’s “Sports for Economic Development” framework, with pilot programs in Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.

Credit: Ghana Badminton Association

The 2025 Regional Ranking Championships took place at the Borteyman Sports Complex from December 26-27. The event featuring players from all over Ghana, takes place every three years to identify talents to feed national teams in Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles competitions.

16 year old Amofa was in scintillating form throughout the 2-day event, not dropping a single set in four knockout matches before coming from behind to beat national number one, Abdul-Samad in the final.

The 2025 African Youth Games gold medalist beat Ishmael Appiah 21-14, 21-12 in qualification round of 16, overcame Douglas Keddy 21-17, 21-8 in qualification quarterfinal, outclassed Brempong Ofori-Acheampong 21-13, 21-8 in the last 8 before seeing off Leslie Addo by a commanding 21-12, 21-7 in the semi finals.

Despite a tough start in the decider, falling down by a landslide 21-7 against the favourite in the first set, young Amofa staged a remarkable comeback to take the second set through a hard-fought 21-15 result. It set up a tense final set in which the youngster prevailed by a close 21-19 to upset Abdul-Samad and emerge the men’s
champion.

Meanwhile, Leslie Addo took third spot after coming out on top of a 3-set thriller against Vincent Tetteh Nii-Teye 21-15, 21-23, 21-18 in the match for beaten semi finalists.

Jennifer Eduam was in even better form in the women’s singles tournament, strolling to the title with commanding straight sets wins over opponents Priscilla Aboagye (21-12, 21-8), Jessica Lomotey (21-12, 21-14) and Vanessa Anyetei (21-7, 21-10) in Group B rounds one, two and three respectively.

In the semi finals, the 27 year old saw off Alana Faith Sullo 21-15, 21-15 before outpointing Margaret Sarpei 21-17, 21-11 in the final.

3rd position consolation was taken by Sullo who overcame Anyetei in straight sets, 21-14 twice in the match for 3rd and 4th place.

In the Men’s and Mixed Doubles, 20 year old Reuben Teye Tetteh finished on top of both podiums, underlining his remarkable durability in team competition.

Partnering Francis Obeng-Shang in the men’s doubles Group B, Tetteh and his teammate won all three preliminary ties in straight sets to set up a semi final date against the pair of Klausbi Gamor and Vincent Nii-Teye who finished second in Group A. The Tetteh-Shang duo triumphed without dropping a set, 21-14, 25-23 to ease into the final. Again, they outwitted opponents Ahmad Abdul-Samad and Ebenezer Korampong 21-14, 21-17 to win the section.

Tetteh was not finished there and teamed up with Jessica Lomotey to also beat the mixed doubles field after two gruelling days in Borteyman. The pair won all four knockout ties in straight sets including over runner-ups Douglas Keddy and Vanessa Anyetei 21-12, 21-15.

Meanwhile, the pair of Leslie Addo and Aaron Tamakloe, as well as the duo of Brempong Ofori-Acheampong and Priscilla finished third in Men’s and Mixed Doubles respectively.

Evans Yeboah, President of Ghana Badminton Association hailed another successful competition hosted, with emphasis on the discovery of more potential future stars from all over the country.

“We saw many new emerging talents, which is great. It will help us, some will be invited to join the national teams,” said Mr Yeboah, the SWAG Sports Administrator of the Year.

“This year has been awesome. Ghana performed exceptionally well in all competitions. We have even bigger expectations going into next year with focus on the Commonwealth Games,’ he added.

Below are some photos from the Ghanaian triumph:

The YOG Dakar 2026 will take place for two weeks from October 31 2026, bringing together the world’s best young athletes. The Games will be held across three host sites (Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly) and aim to catalyze the transformation of Senegal through sport while becoming a blueprint for future YOG hosts.

The selected squad, which comprises a mix of experienced players, including current Africa #3, Leslie Adote Addo and Moslena Adu and promising athletes on the high-performance programme of the national governing body, aims to demonstrate the growing strength of badminton in Ghana and compete for top honours against other 16 African nations expected at the event.

In England, the team will be welcomed by the most passionate fans and valued clients to the closest friends and family. Hospitality at Birmingham 2022 will unite people for this once-in-a-lifetime sport and culture festival. The Hospitality Programme by Badminton England and the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Senegal and us will include vibrant and attractive packages available during the event at critical preliminary and medal sessions.

The Ghana U19 Squad include:

ADDO, Leslie Nii Adote, Korle Gonno, Greater Accra Region

The team captain reached the quarter-finals of the African Games held in Accra, Ghana. He possesses the strength and energy and is hoping to surpass his ranking as the current Africa number 3 and in a clear goal post to qualify for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics and a beginning point accumulation towards 2024 World Championships, LA 2028, African Games 2026, Commonwealth Games 2026 and other major sporting Events.

He brings depth to the team’s continuing rise and world achievement at the summit of major international Competitions.

ADU, Moslena Ama Korama, Agona Nyarkrom, Central Region

Current Ghana’s number one female player and the World Junior Championship finalist has been a toast for many to watch.

The Agona Nyarkrom prodigy has braced for many decades of future potential. The 2023 African Games player climbed to be the female Champion for both Juniors and Seniors, offering a lightening green for the squad.

ANKRAH Jonathan, Abakrampa, Central Region

Growing in favour of experience and professionally, the lad, from a notable podium finish in the 2021 African International Series and the National Doubles Junior Champion, is poised to reposition and get the team on success and glory.

QUARCOO, Racheal, OSU, Greater Accra Region

Nicknamed the Terminator, her process won her many laurels in the past three years, including a scholarship from playing in the African Continental Series.

The former National Champion berets the hope of all Ghanaians; her dazzling skills and talent will be among the stars in this glorious African Championships event as she looks to maintain her dominance on the continent

AMOFA, Andy-Nyaboo, Ashanti Region

With his ever-fighting prowess in Singles and Doubles Events, the 2023 World Junior Championship, USA prodigy leaves much to be desired. The current Juniors Boys Singles Champion offers blazing entertainment play across all events; having transitioned maturely on the field of play and to the continental Sub-juniors events, the team berets success in podium finish and to reign supreme on the continent once more.

KWAW, Nathaniel Abekah-Awutu Bawjiase, Central Region

From farming with parents in the village to climbing tall of an aberration of hope, the national star is calibrating with joy and celebration. His nationally ranked results of the top 5 Juniors depict his climbing nature in the sport, having won the podium on the continental scene since 2021.

QUARCOO, Daniel-OSU, Greater Accra Region

Daniel’s rise in speed and power and his doubles style play bring a wanton of mirror success to bear.

Having won national titles and podium success in Africa, the young chap brings added value to the doubles setup of the team.

ADU-MINTAH, Obabompa, Agona Nyarkrom, Central Region

Nicknamed the Silent Killer, the youngest of the team, was podium finish at the last participated African Championship, bringing laurels to the nation. With his astonishing net play and defence, the national Sub-Junior Singles and doubles Champion brings wealth and depth to the team.

Coaching Development Department Moses Adu and Ernest Sakyi expressed confidence in the team’s abilities, stating, “We have a talented group of players who have been working diligently in preparation for these championships. We aim to win the two competitions in England and Senegal and make a mark on the continental stage. We represent Africa among the 21 Countries for the All England Championships; the world should watch out for us.”

“The national governing body is once again immensely proud to be a part of such an impactful African, European and World Championships,” said Dr Benjamin Baah Konadu, Director of Events.

“Now entering its third year overall within our High-Performance qualification programme, the invitation alone as the only African country in these global events initiatives speaks to the commitment that Ghana Badminton has in growing the opportunities that our sport provides.

Leading the charge for these tournament’s success, together with our primary stakeholders and lead Partners like Tebel Ghana, Ministry of Youth & Sports, National Sports Authority, Ghana Olympic Committee and the National Paralympic Committee, and in line with our 2027 Strategic Plan of Place, People, Participation and Performance themes- we will make Africa proud.

The All England Junior Championships will be held in Birmingham, with Australia, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Falkland Islands, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Poland, Portugal, Scotland, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UAE, USA and Wales.

Participation in these key Junior Championships will provide vital world ranking points and opportunities for junior rankings for our athletes’ onward educational and global college opportunities abroad. The African and European events will lead to the 2026 Youth Olympics points build-up and exposure to vital international competitions. Ahead of this major championship, national camping is ongoing at the Borteyman Sports Complex to get the contingent in the right shape.

The Senegal tournament will feature teams from various African nations, providing an invaluable opportunity for our athletes to gain experience and showcase their skills. The Ghana Badminton Association encourages all sports enthusiasts and supporters to rally behind the team as they embark on this exciting journey. As part of its commitment to developing Badminton in Ghana, the association will continue to invest in youth programs and training initiatives to nurture future champions.

Credit: Ghana Badminton Association