The President of the Ghana Karate Federation (GKF), Mr. Nathaniel Johnson, has been elected to the Executive Board of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), a move hailed by the federation as a major boost for martial arts and sports development in Ghana.

Mr. Johnson’s election was confirmed at the GOC’s elective congress held at the Accra International Conference Centre, where he secured a seat as one of three additional executive members. His victory comes just two years into his tenure as GKF President and has been described as a testament to his dedication and leadership within Ghana’s sporting fraternity.

In a statement issued by the Ghana Karate Federation, the management extended warm congratulations to Mr. Johnson, noting that his innovative approach — particularly in the digitalization of karate administration and training — has already begun transforming the sport’s landscape in the country.

“Under President Nathaniel’s leadership, the GKF has made significant strides in promoting karate and enhancing the profile of martial arts in Ghana. His visionary approach to digitalization in sports has opened new avenues for engagement, training, and athlete development,” the statement said.

The GKF expressed optimism that Mr. Johnson’s position on the GOC Board will catalyze greater attention to karate and other martial arts disciplines in national sports policy and investment.

“We firmly believe that his involvement on the GOC Board will greatly influence the growth of sports not only within karate but across all athletic disciplines in Ghana,” the statement added.

Mr. Johnson joins a new leadership team at the GOC headed by veteran sports administrator Richard Kofi Akpokavie, who was elected President after securing 44 votes against Michael Odum Aggrey’s 19 votes.

The new Executive Board is expected to lead Ghana’s Olympic movement into the next phase of international competition, including preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and future Olympic campaigns.

The Ghana Karate Federation has pledged its full support for Mr. Johnson as he steps into his expanded leadership role, expressing confidence that his tenure will yield significant benefits for Ghanaian sports development.

“We are excited about the potential collaborations and initiatives that will arise from his position. The Ghana Karate Federation remains committed to supporting his efforts and working in tandem with the GOC to enhance sports development in our nation,” the GKF statement concluded.