Accra, Jan 9, GNA - Solomon Offei Darko, Chairman of the Ghana Amateur Boxing Authority (GABA) has initiated a ten-year strategic plan that will lead to the development of amateur boxing in the country. The plan, which will stem from 2007-2017, is expected to highlight on problems affecting the pugilist profession.

Speaking to the GNA Sports in Accra, Mr. Darko cited inadequate structures to promote boxing, a weak technical base, inadequate finance and lack of equipment as the four main problems that have hampered the progress of amateur boxing in the country.

"The strategic plan would is expected therefore to deal with the above problems to make amateur boxing very attractive and competitive".

Chairman Darko explained that this year is a very busy one for boxing as the nation will be competing in the Zonal Championships in February, the Africa Boxing Championships in April and the All Africa Games in July.

He said to this end the technical handlers of the national amateur boxing team, the Black Bombers will embark on a nationwide scout for potential talents to parade a formidable squad for the competitions. Mr. Darko said that plans are underway for the Bombers to embark on an early camping to put them in good shape for the championships.

The Chairman, who has recently been appointed as an Executive member of Africa Zone 3, disclosed that he is fighting very hard to get some boxing equipment, which will be donated to various gyms across the country.

He said very soon, GABA will select some basic and secondary schools as model institutions for the promotion of boxing as a step towards unearthing budding talents for the national team. The Chairman said this strategy is expected to ensure that the national team has equally good replacements when the current members fade out or turn professional.