The Foundation also took the opportunity to commend the former President for his exemplary leadership, patriotism, and invaluable contributions to Ghana’s democratic governance and national development.
Receiving the delegation, President Kufuor expressed delight and admiration for the vision, commitment, and sense of purpose demonstrated by Mr. Osei Mensah Joseph and the OMJ Foundation.
As a resident of the Akuapem South Municipality, the former President noted that initiatives such as OMJ SoccerFest represent the type of grassroots interventions required to inspire young people, strengthen communities, and promote inclusive development. He commended the Foundation for transforming what began as a simple community football competition into a major developmental platform capable of creating meaningful social impact and improving the lives of thousands of people.
President Kufuor also expressed admiration for the leadership qualities demonstrated by Mr. Osei, particularly his ability to mobilise communities, traditional authorities, public institutions, and private sector organisations around a shared vision of development and empowerment. He encouraged members of the Foundation and its partners to remain steadfast in their efforts to serve society, emphasising that genuine leadership is ultimately measured by one’s commitment to improving the lives of others.
The former President subsequently offered his blessings for the tournament and pledged his support towards its continued growth, sustainability, and long-term success.
Also present at the meeting was Nana Addo Yeboah, Sanaahene of Akuapem Ahwerase and Twafuorhene of Pokrom Nsabaa, who led a distinguished delegation from the Ahwerase Traditional Council.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional authorities, Nana Addo Yeboah reaffirmed the Council’s unwavering commitment to the success of the tournament.
He stated that Ahwerase was honoured to host the fourth edition of the festival and assured the Foundation that the Traditional Council would provide the necessary support to ensure a peaceful, secure, and hospitable environment for all participants, guests, and visitors. He further noted that the event presents a unique opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and developmental aspirations of the Ahwerase community to a national audience.
The Akuapem South Municipal Director of Health Services, Madam Emily Akosua Amponsah, also reiterated her institution’s commitment to its longstanding partnership with the OMJ Foundation. According to her, the Municipal Health Directorate has worked closely with the Foundation over the years and has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of its interventions on community welfare and development.
She expressed enthusiasm about the forthcoming edition of the festival and pledged the provision of comprehensive health screening services for participants and patrons. She underscored the importance of healthcare accessibility as a critical component of sustainable development and described the Foundation as a trusted partner whose initiatives continue to complement government efforts in promoting public health.
Representing the tournament’s official logistics and welfare partner, Mrs. Perpetual Serwaa Osei, Human Resources Manager of Arrow’s Lounge, 24/7 Arrow’s Kitchen, and Arrow’s Logistics, reaffirmed her organisation’s commitment to supporting the event. She announced that her outfit would provide extensive logistical and technical support for the successful execution of the festival, including staging, sound systems, LED screens, lighting infrastructure, trussing, and event management services.
Mrs. Osei further assured stakeholders that the welfare and catering needs of athletes, officials, volunteers, and support personnel throughout the three-day festival would be adequately catered for, describing the partnership as a meaningful investment in youth empowerment and community development.
The meeting concluded on a highly positive note, with participants expressing confidence that OMJ SoccerFest–Akuapem South 2026 will not only be the largest edition in the tournament’s history but will also leave a lasting legacy of unity, opportunity, health promotion, youth development, and community transformation.
As preparations intensify, anticipation continues to build for what many stakeholders believe will be a landmark edition capable of redefining grassroots sports development and community engagement within Akuapem South and beyond.
