NSA tests pitch panel samples to protect Ghanaâ??s stadia

The National Sports Authority (NSA) has begun testing two pitch panel samples as part of efforts to acquire the country’s first set of turf protection systems.

Pitch panels are modular mats designed to shield natural grass from damage caused by heavy loads, concerts, and other non-sporting events. In a demonstration, one of the samples was tested for durability by driving a vehicle across it, showcasing its potential to preserve playing surfaces while enabling multi-purpose use of stadia.

Currently, Ghana does not have pitch panels, a gap that has contributed to the rapid deterioration of several major stadiums. Venues such as the Baba Yara Stadium, Aliu Mahama Stadium, and Sekondi Essipong Stadium, all refurbished for the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, have fallen into poor condition, with Essipong described as being in the worst state. The Cape Coast Stadium, commissioned in 2016, has also suffered a significant decline.

At present, only the Accra Sports Stadium meets international standards. It has recently hosted Black Stars matches and served as the home venue for Bibiani GoldStars and Asante Kotoko in their continental campaigns.

The introduction of pitch panels is expected to reduce maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of playing surfaces across the country. It comes as Ghana looks ahead to a major infrastructural boost, with President John Mahama announcing the construction of seven new stadia in 2026 as part of efforts to make Ghana’s football more competitive.

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