The Ghana Rowing and Canoeing Federation is gearing up for several upcoming competitions, including the Youth Games in Angola, Dakar Youth Olympics in Senegal, and the Olympic Games in 2028, in Los Angeles.
According to the federation’s president who made the disclosure in an interview with the media on Friday, 3rd October, 2025, Mr. Kamal Sulley stated, “This year could be our breakthrough. We’ve been working hard behind the scenes, and Ghanaians will soon see the results. Our focus is on the youth — the ultimate aim is to get them to the Olympic Games.”
The team will be embarking on a training camp in Benin later this month, fully sponsored by the International Rowing Federation. Mr. Sulley emphasized the importance of these competitions, stating that they are crucial for athlete selection and preparation for the Olympic Games.
“Some of the so-called lesser-known sports have incredible potential to win medals and make a global impact. Just look at Togo — they’re on the Olympic medal table because of rowing. Ghana can certainly do the same.”
According to Mr. Sulley, the federation is facing challenges, particularly with regards to equipment. However, he expressed optimism that Ghana will receive 50 boats from the International Canoe Federation, which will go a long way in boosting the team’s chances.
“We are blessed with natural resources — vast seas, lakes and rivers. In many coastal and riverine communities, people paddle daily, some students even row canoes for nearly an hour just to get to school,” Mr. Sulley explained. “What we need is the right equipment, proper training, and to identify these natural talents to turn them into elite athletes.”
One of the federation’s rowing athletes, a German-based athlete, Natalie Weber has made it to the top 8 in the world rankings. Mr. Sulley is confident that she will represent Ghana at the next Olympic Games and is working to get more athletes to join the team.
The president expressed gratitude to the new administration of the Ghana Olympic Committee for their support and appealed for more financial backing to support the team’s activities.
“The federation is also working to secure funding for team sports, which is a significant challenge”. He stated.
The federation has also outlined activities including National championships aimed at selecting athletes for World championships in Canada next year.