Author: Victoria Nana Adwoa Kwofie
On Friday, May 9, 2025, the Handball Association of Ghana (HAG) engaged with executives and stakeholders of the Greater Accra Handball Association (GAHA) in a crucial meeting held at the Alisa Hotel. The meeting was led by HAG President, Mr. Nii Lante Bannerman, who was accompanied by some executive committee members, the Technical Director George Bankole, and the Chief Referee of the Association Charles Mensah, Present from GAHA were Chairman Rama Kudolo and Organizer Hillary Mills, coaches and representatives from the various clubs.
It will be recalled that on April 30, 2025, the Mother Association (HAG) announced the temporary suspension of all GAHA activities. The engagement was therefore aimed at addressing the issues that led to the suspension and to foster dialogue toward restoring operations.
In his remarks, President Bannerman stressed the importance of addressing internal issues and resolving differences that hinder the development of the sport. He emphasized that the suspension was not punitive but a necessary step to align GAHA’s operations with the standards of the Confederation of African Handball (CABH).
“There are major internal issues and differences that must be resolved before the start of a new season,” he stated. “I often receive calls from GAHA members about their grievances, and I always ask them to put it in writing. Unfortunately, the complaints often go unresolved because the documentation never follows.”
He reminded stakeholders that decisions at the national level are not taken unilaterally and that proper communication through official channels is essential for transparency and accountability. “I don’t work alone and can’t make decisions alone. Documentation is key for accountability,” he stated
Among other issues addressed was GAHA elections brouhaha, the current administration’s time has elapsed and members were seeking an interim committee to stir the affairs of the Association which the plea was turned down by the mother body, he rather advised them to set a date for Congress and elect new executives. “We will not set any committee for you, stakeholders of GAHA should have meeting and set date as soon as possible for the Congress we will be available to supervise that the president stated it.
GAHA Chairman Rama Kudolo responded on behalf of the regional body, acknowledging the concerns raised by HAG and expressing his willingness to cooperate fully to resolve the issues. He thanked HAG for the opportunity to engage in open dialogue and called for continued collaboration to develop handball in the region.
“We are committed to doing what is necessary to get back on track. We acknowledge the issues and are ready to work hand in hand with the national body to correct them,” Kudolo noted
Importantly, the President officially announced the lifting of the suspension, allowing GAHA to resume its operations.
President Bannerman also announced that HAG will soon open an official portal for the registration of players, coaches, and referees — a step toward improved record-keeping and professional standards in handball management.