The transformative power of sport took centre stage at the 12th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Glasgow, Scotland, where leaders from across the Commonwealth discussed ways to use sport to build healthier, fairer and more inclusive societies. Held alongside the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the meeting brought together Sports Ministers, Heads of Mission, senior government officials and international sporting stakeholders under the theme: “Reimagining the Power of Sport towards Healthier, Fairer and Equitable Commonwealth Communities.” Representing Ghana, Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, called for greater fairness, inclusion and evidence-based policymaking in the development of Commonwealth sport. He emphasised the need to remove barriers that limit access to sporting opportunities, particularly for developing countries and talented individuals who may be disadvantaged by complex systems.
Speaking on access to Commonwealth sporting programmes, Kofi Adams stressed the importance of creating a more transparent and equitable application process that allows more countries to identify, prepare and support deserving athletes and participants. The Minister also urged governments to make greater use of data and research to maximise the developmental benefits of sport. He noted that while many Commonwealth countries have strong passion for sport, the potential of that enthusiasm remains underutilised without strategic planning and evidence-based interventions.
According to him, data-driven policies can help governments understand participation trends, identify areas of need and design programmes that promote healthier lifestyles while strengthening communities. His interventions aligned with broader discussions at the meeting, where ministers highlighted sport’s contribution to public health, mental well-being, social cohesion, economic resilience and sustainable development. Participants also called for stronger investment in community sport and greater support for countries with limited resources.
The meeting reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s commitment to building sporting systems that are safe, inclusive and accessible, with particular focus on women and girls, young people, persons with disabilities and other underrepresented groups. Delegates also welcomed upcoming events including the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta and the 2030 … The government has distributed more than 24,000 pieces of medical equipment as part of efforts to strengthen primary healthcare delivery across the country, the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced.
Dr Forson disclosed during the presentation of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review to Parliament on Thursday, July 22, where he outlined the government’s interventions to improve access to quality healthcare, particularly in underserved communities. He said the government remained committed to ensuring that all Ghanaians had access to essential healthcare services irrespective of their income levels or geographical location. “Government remains committed to ensuring that every Ghanaian has access to quality primary healthcare, regardless of income or location,” Dr Forson told Parliament.
The Finance Minister said the commitment was being implemented through the Free Primary Healthcare Policy, which was launched in April 2026, with the first phase focusing on 150 underserved districts across the country. According to him, the policy is aimed at expanding access to basic healthcare services and reducing barriers that prevent many people, especially those in deprived communities, from receiving timely medical attention. Dr Forson further announced that the government had already supplied thousands of medical equipment to support healthcare facilities and improve their capacity to provide essential services.
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