Vincent Ekow Assafuah Questions Effectiveness of Astroturf Projects, Urges Ministry of Sports to Commission Review
Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sports, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has called for a comprehensive evaluation of the astroturf projects initiated under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
Astroturf pitches have become increasingly common in Ghana, with dozens installed nationwide in recent years. While they were introduced to provide all-weather playing surfaces and reduce maintenance costs, concerns have been raised about their long-term durability and suitability for player development.
Speaking during an interview on Asempa FM’s Sportsnite show, the Member of Parliament questioned whether the artificial pitches, introduced to address weather-related challenges in Ghana, are fulfilling their intended purpose.
“It is because of the weather conditions in Ghana that the NPP government introduced astroturf, but whether it is serving its intended purpose is debatable,” Assafuah stated.
He urged the Ministry of Sports to consider launching an official inquiry to assess the impact and quality of the astroturfs constructed across the country. According to him, such a review would help determine the way forward on infrastructure development in Ghana’s sports sector.
“The Ministry of Sports can commission an enquiry into this and see how the astroturfs have fared to make a decision to whether go on with astroturfs or move away from it,” he added.
Assafuah’s remarks add to the ongoing debate surrounding sports infrastructure investment, with many stakeholders calling for a balance between artificial and natural grass pitches, especially at the grassroots level.
