Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang on Saturday represented President John Dramani Mahama at the 50th Anniversary celebration of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG), an event that highlighted SWAG’s long-standing role in promoting Ghana’s sporting excellence.

The Vice President also received a special award on behalf of the President, expressing deep appreciation for SWAG’s contribution to uplifting Ghanaian athletes and documenting the nation’s sporting achievements over the past five decades.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended SWAG for continuously motivating sportsmen and women to uphold high standards, noting that Ghana is blessed with immense talent, with many athletes rising from humble beginnings to excel both nationally and across the continent.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to using sports as a tool for national development, stressing that meaningful transformation requires deliberate investment, sound policies, modern infrastructure, and a strong grassroots system that accommodates all young people — including those outside traditional school structures.

According to the Vice President, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has undertaken a thorough review of its priorities to modernise the country’s sporting facilities in line with the national reset agenda.

The ceremony also featured a solemn moment in honour of victims of the recent stadium stampede.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said the tragic incident reinforces the government’s resolve to strengthen safety, infrastructure, and crowd management across sporting venues nationwide.

She extended hearty congratulations to all athletes, coaches, journalists, referees and administrators honoured at the event, praising their tireless commitment, which continues to inspire millions of Ghanaians.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang further congratulated SWAG on reaching its golden jubilee, describing the Association’s five-decade contribution as “indispensable” in shaping Ghana’s sporting narrative, advocating for athletes, and preserving stories that form part of the nation’s identity.