Author: Victoria Kwofie – Senior Sports Reporter
Giant of Africa successfully concluded its two-day visit to Ghana with the unveiling of a newly constructed basketball court at the Demonstration School for the Deaf at Akuapem Mampong on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The visit began with a women’s basketball coaching clinic on Day One for 30 women.
The court project was executed in partnership with Sport Court and formally handed over to the school authorities and pupils. About 50 selected students were kitted in Giant of Africa-branded T-shirts, shorts, socks, and footwear, and participated in a demonstration game on the new court. The school also received a donation of 20 basketballs to support ongoing training and development.
Mr. Ametewee Setumtu Dzodzi, Headmaster of the Demonstration School for the Deaf, expressed profound appreciation to Giant of Africa, Sport Court, and the Ghana Basketball Federation for the life-changing initiative. “Thank you, Giant of Africa, for travelling all the way to the Demonstration School for the Deaf. My staff and my children are extremely grateful for this opportunity. This is an eye-opener and a wonderful way to begin the year. We believe that 2026 is going to be a great year, with many more good things to come,” he said.
He further assured the partners of the school’s commitment to maintaining the facility and expressed hope for continued collaboration. “We promise to keep this facility in good shape and make good use of it. We hope to see Giant of Africa return, not only to build but to continue putting smiles on the faces of these children. Once again, we say thank you, and God bless you for coming.”
Senior Coach at Giant of Africa and FIBA Instructor Joe Touomou described the visit as a deeply emotional and fulfilling experience, highlighting the transformative power of basketball.
“This place is very unique. To come here and see these children is truly a blessing. Being able to put smiles on their faces and give them hope is overwhelming. Basketball is a great game, and learning it will bring tremendous value to their lives and help them grow into better individuals,” he stated.
Reflecting on his long journey in basketball development, Touomou emphasized Giant of Africa’s mission.
“I’ve been doing this for 33 years, and this is the first time I’ve had an experience like this. Yesterday we had an all-female camp, and today we are here with these special children. Our goal is to grow the game across the continent and empower the youth. Basketball opened doors for us, and we want these kids to understand that if they respect the game and take advantage of the opportunities it offers, the sky is truly the limit.”
Lauren Gillian, Director of Partnerships and Community Relations at Sport Court, gave deeper meaning behind the project, describing it as more than just building a playing surface.
“When you look at the smiles on the faces of these children, you see the power of sport. They don’t just see a court; they see dreams and possibilities. This is what sport does, it inspires hope,” he said.
He revealed Sport Court’s long-term vision with Giant of Africa. “About six years ago, Masai told me he wanted to change how basketball looks on the continent and build 100 courts. I said, ‘I’m in.’ These children are already champions, not just on the scoreboard but champions of life. Africa is important to us, and we believe there is immense talent and opportunity here. “
The event also featured a short mentorship session for the students, where Coach Joe Touomou and Coach Geraldine Robert introduced basic basketball rules and shared personal experiences, encouraging the pupils to dream big and embrace the opportunities the sport can offer.
