Ghana is taking active steps to reframe sports as a tool for positive development rather than a gateway for trafficking. Hon Kofi Iddie Adams has called for increased awareness and strategic action to protect youth and athletes from exploitation.
In line with this vision, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is organizing a high-level national forum titled “Play It Safe: Choose the Right Path in Sports.” This event is part of IOM’s broader initiative, supported by the Development Fund, aimed at combating human trafficking linked to sports. The forum seeks to foster collaboration among government, civil society, sports authorities, and international partners to develop effective strategies for safeguarding vulnerable populations involved in sports.
Today, IOM’s Chief of Mission, Madam Fatou Diallo Hdiaye, briefed the Minister for Sports and Recreation on the baseline findings of a research into trafficking in the region. The study uncovered concerning trends: nearly 96% of respondents expressed interest in pursuing sports careers abroad, primarily driven by hopes for better facilities and financial gains. However, over 30% reported falling prey to exploitative recruitment schemes, often orchestrated by unlicensed agents and intermediaries operating outside regulatory oversight.
The research highlights a troubling network of informal agents and unregulated academies that facilitate recruitment, increasing the risk of trafficking and exploitation among young athletes, sports staff, and volunteers.
During the meeting, Hon Kofi Iddie Adams underscored the importance of proper immigration processes in sports development. “Ensuring athletes follow the right routes will help them benefit fully from sportsmanship,” he stated. “Proper immigration procedures are essential, and we must promote education to transform sports into a tool for growth and development, not trafficking.”
The upcoming forum aims to bring together key stakeholders to address these issues, utilizing the global spotlight of upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 to strengthen vigilance and cross-sector collaboration.
Recent months have also seen a rise in cyber scams targeting individuals seeking legitimate sports opportunities. Nearly 500 fake domains mimicking FIFA platforms have been identified, tricking aspiring athletes and raising concerns that traffickers are exploiting major sporting events for their illicit networks.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
