The recent death of Nigerian boxer, Sam Okon, has brought to light the critical need for better occupational safety standards in the sports industry, especially in Ghana. Okon, a rising star in the boxing world, tragically passed away after sustaining severe injuries during a match. This devastating incident has reignited discussions about the safety protocols in sports, particularly contact sports like boxing, where the risks of injury are high.
In light of this tragedy, experts and stakeholders in Ghana’s sports sector are urging the government and sports organizations to prioritize the safety and well-being of athletes. Although Ghana has a rich history in sports, particularly in boxing, critics argue that the country’s sports infrastructure and safety regulations need significant improvements to protect athletes from preventable harm.
Experts have pointed out that, in many cases, athletes in Ghana, particularly in boxing, often compete without adequate medical support or proper health assessments before matches. Additionally, there are concerns about the lack of safety measures, such as headgear, appropriate training, and post-match medical care. Many local boxers have expressed their frustrations about the limited resources available to them to ensure their safety during training and matches.
The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) and other sports bodies have been urged to review and enforce strict safety regulations for all athletes. This includes ensuring that matches are supervised by qualified medical personnel, implementing regular health screenings for athletes, and providing proper protective gear during competitions. Furthermore, there is a call for better education on the risks of injuries in contact sports, including concussion awareness.
The death of Sam Okon serves as a stark reminder that while sports can bring glory and joy, the safety of athletes should always come first. As Ghana continues to celebrate its sports achievements, it is crucial that the nation invests in systems that prioritize the health and safety of its athletes to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
Source https://www.modernghana.com/news/1389930/death-of-nigerian-boxer-ghanaian-sports-must-prio.html