In an effort to ensure the successful implementation of the “One Constituency one astro-turf” project, Robert Coleman, the known voice behind much of Zoomlion’s media visibility and public sensitisation in Ghana, has thrown in the ‘’towel’’ to pursue that agenda.
Speaking to the Ghanaian Times in an exclusive interview to throw more light on the progress of work on the projects so far, Mr. Coleman who is making a career switch after almost a decade in charge of the stormy job of handling communications for the Integrated Waste Management giants, said he fully wanted to commit to the astro turf project.
“I have decided to focus my attention to meeting the demand of “one astro turf per constituency” in fulfilment of the desire of majority of Ghanaians with support from the government and the district assemblies across the country.
The “one Constituency one astro turf’’ project, started with 10 pitches in Accra, and five in the regions across the country. So far, 13 have been constructed in places such as Madina, Kyebi, La, Walewale, Sukula, Nungua, with other ongoing projects at Hohoe, Senya-Breku. Some communities and schools at East Legon, Ridge Church, Mary Mother, Kotobabi and Dzorwulu have also benefitted from the initiative
The quality of craftsmanship, world class finishing and infusion of modern architecture for the facilities, has led to a sharp increase in demand from various local assemblies and lawmakers for replication of the astro turfs in their districts and constituencies.
“The project has far reaching advantages which should encourage various constituencies to sign up. “The One Constituency 1 Astro turf” project has enormous job creation potential. The astro turfs will further uplift the image of the host constituencies, provide a rich avenue for sporting talent to be harnessed and developed-but also more importantly provide a solid and modern arena for hosting social and public functions in the host constituencies” he added.
He paid glowing tribute to the government, the Zongo and Inner City Development Ministry for supporting the initiative and urged all district assemblies, churches, communities and schools to embrace it so that grassless pitches could be eliminated in the country.
Mr Coleman welcomed the construction of astro turf pitches in Kumasi and Fadama and said “it is good that others have joined in. It is not about completion but a collective effort to create jobs, provide recreational centres and the more the better for the country, he said
Taking over from Mr Coleman at Zoomlion, is a former radio presenter-Bernard Naasara Saibu, widely known for hosting news and current affairs shows on Joy Fm, Starr Fm and TV3.
By Times Reporter
