Coach Ernest Donkor, Chief Executive Officer of Sefwiman Sporting Club, has raised concerns about the state of sports branding and development in the Western North Region, describing it as significantly underdeveloped.
Speaking in an interview with Kwame Adolf Asmah on Raycof Sports Night, Coach Donkor, popularly known in the football circles as “Ember”, stated that effective branding is key to modern sports growth, noting that clubs must strategically use social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to project their image globally.
“Branding is about making our sports meet the expectations of the people through social media in order to reach the world,” he said.
He, however, expressed concern that the Western North sports sector is lagging behind, estimating that it is about 20% developed in terms of branding.
According to him, many clubs in the region are struggling due to lack of knowledge and professional structures.
“Western North is grounded when it comes to branding. We are not really into sports the way it should be because many people don’t have the right ideas,” he added.
Coach Donkor further noted that sustaining football clubs in the region remains a major challenge, citing financial constraints and lack of proper community support.
He mentioned that even established clubs are feeling the pressure.
He specifically referenced Bibiani Goldstars FC and Sefwi All Stars as important benchmark clubs in the region, describing them as “mentors” for emerging teams.
“Gold Stars and Sefwi All Stars are our mentors. Every team is a product and must be protected. The communities and supporters must all play their role to help clubs grow,” he stated.
He also lamented the collapse of the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai local league, describing it as no longer attractive and calling for urgent revival efforts to restore competitive football in the area.
Coach Donkor concluded by urging stakeholders, including community leaders, supporters, and club administrators, to treat football clubs as shared community assets that require collective responsibility for development and survival.
