On Monday, September 9, 2024, Mr. Frank Asiedu Berkoe, popularly known as Protozoa, the Director of Politics at the Office of the Chief of Staff and the NPP Parliamentary Candidate for Suhum Constituency, led a groundbreaking ceremony for a state-of-the-art Astro Turf project in Suhum in the Eastern Region. He was joined by Hon. Margaret Darko Darkwaa, the Municipal Chief Executive of Suhum, Osaabarima Ayeh Kofi, traditional leaders, and the Anglican Priest Rev. Father Agyei Twum Yeboah.
The upcoming Astro Turf will feature a modern design including a dressing room, seating capacity for 500 spectators, and standard tracks, aiming to meet the needs of a growing and sports-loving community. The project, which is being executed by Philipia Construction Limited under the guidance of Mr. George Afriyie, a former Black Stars player and coach, is expected to be completed by the end of November 2024.
Addressing the crowd during the groundbreaking ceremony, Mr. Asiedu Berkoe highlighted the strategic location of Suhum, which serves as a crucial link between the Eastern Regional capital, Koforidua, and major highways connecting Accra, Kumasi, and further extending to countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Senegal. He emphasized that Suhum Municipality comprises over 300 towns and villages with a high population density and hosts 13 football teams. Currently, these teams are forced to travel to Kyebi for matches due to the lack of a local standard sports facility, which has been a longstanding inconvenience for the community.
Recognizing this need, Mr. Asiedu Berkoe made a concerted effort to secure an Astro Turf facility for Suhum, ensuring that local football teams have a proper venue to train and host matches. He also announced plans for an additional Astro Turf to be constructed at Amanhyia within the same municipality, a declaration that was met with enthusiastic applause from the community.
Mr. Asiedu Berkoe is highly regarded by his constituents for his dedication to improving the welfare of the people of Suhum. His commitment extends beyond infrastructure, as he has been instrumental in providing financial support to the youth, assisting with educational and healthcare needs, supporting local farmers, and facilitating access to opportunities in the security services.
The new Astro Turf is expected to boost sports development in Suhum, providing a modern facility that aligns with the community’s aspirations for progress and excellence in athletics.
Credit: Nana Kwame George (Snr Freelance Journalist E/R)
