Zak Rahman, the aspiring New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary candidate for the Ayawaso East constituency, has launched a month-long football tournament aimed at unearthing local talent and creating job opportunities for young people in the area.

The competition, which kicked off last Wednesday, will conclude on November 16 at the Kawukudi Astro Turf Park. Twenty-four teams are competing in a knockout-style tournament, with lucrative prizes awaiting the top three teams.

Teams that progress beyond the first round will compete in a round-robin format to determine the final qualifiers. The participating teams hail from various localities across the constituency, including Michigan, Abatamiya, Uganda, Ruga, Butchers 11, Nkunya, Lost Angeles, Jakpos, Ba Mei Yi, ATM, Bronx, Berlin Bridge, Hollandians, and Bangkok. Other teams include Ko-Oho, 5 Horrors, Nafiu, ABM, Taxi Rank, Buza 11, Kanda, Riverside, Mighty Youth, and Bobo Youth.

Speaking to Graphic Online, Mr Rahman explained that the competition’s primary objective is to identify and nurture football talent to benefit both the players and the nation.

“I have already helped create jobs for over 400 young people in the constituency. Some have taken up roles in catering, dressmaking, bead making, fitting, mechanics, barbering, and various artisanal trades. This competition is designed to support those who have football talent by providing them with the opportunities and resources to become professional players,” he said.

He also disclosed that scouts, both local and international, are attending the event to identify promising players and offer them opportunities with major clubs in Ghana and abroad.

Mr Rahman urged constituents to support his bid for Parliament in the upcoming December 7 elections, stating, “I appeal to voters to make the right choice and elect me to represent you in Parliament.”