Accra, July 17, GNA – Vice President, John Dramani Mahama has emphasized government’s commitment towards investing more in sports to give hope to the youth and promote national unity.

Mr Mahama who addressed the opening ceremony of the National Unity Games after a comeback over seven years break said the Games that spans ten days gives through meaning to the government’s pledge to resurrect all dormant sports disciplines and ensure sports enjoys the best of attention in the country.

“The return of the Games today after seven years break means government is living by her promise to revive all sporting disciplines and give the maximum attention it deserves.”

He said he has the hope that the Games which bring together 5000 athletes to compete in 20 disciplines will mark a turnaround for all aspects of Ghana sports and unearth enough talent for Ghana’s future pride and glory in international events.

“Sports is an activity that can bring joy and hope to people and it is my personal belief that the youth must be engaged in activities that gives them hope for the future.”

“For this reason, government will continue to invest into sports and all other related programs that empower the youth and create the platform to give them enough hope for the future.” He added.

The Vice President was hopeful that the resurrected Unity Games, previously dubbed the National Sports Festival will set the stage for a dazzling spell for future national heroes and heroines.

All the ten regions plus the security services will compete in disciplines such as football, hockey, tennis, table tennis, boxing, judo, badminton, cycling, karate-do, volleyball, taekwondo and weightlifting among others over the next ten days.

The Unity Games is aimed at unearthing talents to feed the various national teams.