The Ghana Productive Safety Net Project (GPSNP) has initiated the construction of a natural grass football pitch at the Tendamba JHS Park in Wa, the Upper West Regional Capital. This project, funded by the World Bank, aims to enhance the productivity of the poor and vulnerable, including women in Zongo communities.
The construction is labour-intensive, employing approximately 41 people from the Zongo community, each earning about GHC 35 per day. According to sources, this is a pilot project managed by Parks and Gardens, with plans to replicate it in five other municipalities in the Upper West Region if the Wa project proceeds smoothly.
The construction of the park in Wa will help determine the project’s cost and other crucial details that were previously unknown. Upon completion in 2025, the park will feature two stands and a fence, and it will be handed over to the Wa Municipal Assembly for management.
Footballers, who currently train at Tendamba JHS Park, expressed their excitement about the transformation from hard ground to natural grass. They are optimistic that the new pitch will enhance football development and improve the quality of the game.
An enthusiastic Marizuk Iddrisu who plays for Kalibi FC in the Upper West Regional Division Two League shared, “Growing up, the only good pitch was the Wa Park, but it is no longer up to standard. We have always longed for good pitches in Wa. There are astro turfs in other regions, and Wa players struggle when they travel to play on such surfaces. Today, I am very excited that this park is set to be transformed into a standard pitch, benefiting the younger generation.”
Another player with Wa Sombo Freedom Stars, Moomin Shaibu added, “The construction of the pitch excites us. We used to play while dodging potholes, which exposed us to injuries. That will not be the case once the park is developed.”
Known for its traditional background, the Tendamba JHS Park is set to become a magnificent venue for developing football talents in the Upper West Region. There has been a strong call from footballers and supporters for the construction of the park as it has the potential to become a center for football activities in the region.
