The Director General of Ghana’s National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, has stated that the Accra Sports Stadium will not be available to host a proposed concert by Jamaican dancehall icon Vybz Kartel unless a proper pitch cover is provided.
Speaking to Sporty FM, Ampofo Ankrah emphasized that the stadium, Ghana’s premier venue for international football is currently undergoing partial renovations, with parts of the seating area already cordoned off. He confirmed that Kartel’s management had formally expressed interest in holding a concert at the venue as part of a global tour scheduled for December.
“The kind of high-energy performances and stage setups associated with Vybz Kartel cannot be restricted,” he said. “But offering that freedom without safeguarding the pitch would be irresponsible. We simply can’t afford to compromise the playing surface.”
He stressed that hosting the event without adequate protective measures could severely damage the pitch, which would impact the stadium’s readiness for football matches.
“Otherwise, I might as well hand in my resignation. It’s not worth ruining the pitch for a single event on December 31,” he added.
While reiterating the NSA’s openness to major international events, Ampofo Ankrah acknowledged the cultural and symbolic value of a Vybz Kartel concert in Ghana.
“It’s more than just a musical event, it represents a cultural moment. It touches on tourism, Ghana-Jamaica relations, and even Kartel’s personal journey as a born-again Rastafarian,” he said.
The NSA, he noted, remains in dialogue with stakeholders to assess the feasibility of the concert, but made it clear that the condition of the pitch remains a top priority.
