Ghana’s champion armwrestlers face funding crisis ahead of African title defence

Ghana’s national armwrestling team, the Golden Arms, is racing against time to secure $42,000 in funding to compete at the 14th African Armwrestling Championship in Abuja, Nigeria, later this month.

The tournament, set for 23-27 July at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, will see over 400 athletes from 20 African nations battle for continental glory.

But Ghana’s defending champions risk missing out unless urgent financial support is found.

A medal-winning team in need

The Ghana Armwrestling Federation (GAF) hopes to send 20 athletes and four officials to Abuja, but President Charles Osei Asibey admits the team is struggling despite its remarkable success.

“The Golden Arms, arguably the most consistent team in Ghana and Africa, deserves better,” he said.

With 350 international medals won in just five African championships and a world championship, Ghana’s armwrestlers have become a powerhouse.

At the 13th African Games in Accra, they contributed 41 of Ghana’s 68 medals—a staggering 60% of the nation’s haul.

Yet, funding remains a hurdle.

Appeal for national support

Osei Asibey, who also heads the Armwrestling Federation of Africa (AFA), called on corporate sponsors, the public, and the government to step up.

“We admit it is not smooth economically but there should be a way,” he said. “The team requires about $42,000 to cater for essential expenses.”

“It is a challenging situation and we at the Ghana Armwrestling Federation are calling on Ghanaians, corporate organisations, and government agencies to contribute to our tireless effort to ensure we compete and win.”

The Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) have also been approached for support.

Can Ghana defend its title?

Since February, the Golden Arms have been training intensively, confident of another dominant performance—if they make it to Nigeria.

With just weeks left, the clock is ticking. Will Ghana’s champions get their chance to shine?