The Member of Parliament for Ashaiman, Ernest Henry Norgbey, has reassured constituents that the construction of two new Astroturf pitches will be completed before the next general elections in 2028.
The lawmaker, who also serves as the Chairman of Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, described the project as a personal priority, emphasizing its potential to unlock youth talent and solidify Ashaiman’s reputation as a breeding ground for football stars.
“We address this issue always, but I can’t assure you if it will be done this year or next year, but I’m very optimistic it will be a reality,” Hon. Norgbey stated in an interview with the blog Ashaiman Sweet. “It will happen before our next election. Before the next election, we have started something, and Ashaiman will see one or two AstroTurfs, so everyone will be excited.”
The Roman Park Conundrum
This is not the first time the MP has promised such a facility. In October 2025, Hon. Norgbey announced on social media that work had begun to convert the Ashaiman Roman Park into an Astroturf. However, following consultations with the Old Footballers Association of Ashaiman, the project scope was expanded.
The community advocated for a modern sports complex featuring running tracks and spectator stands, a redesign that reportedly increased the projected cost from GH₵5 million to GH₵14 million. Despite these announcements and revised plans, nearly five months later, no visible work has commenced at the Roman Park site, leading to growing frustration among the youth.
Mixed Reactions and Community Pressure
While some residents remain hopeful that the MP will deliver on his latest pledge, skepticism is mounting. Local activists have intensified calls for accountability.
Hassan Ibrahim Dabooh, a community advocate and football blogger who has been vocal about the need for the facility, has vowed to maintain pressure on the municipal authorities.
“I won’t stop bashing the MP and MCE until they get us an astroturf,” Dabooh said in a widely circulated recording.
As the 2028 elections draw closer, the delivery of these sporting facilities is shaping up to be a key benchmark for the MP’s performance in the eyes of Ashaiman’s passionate and football-loving youth.
