Deaf and hearing young adults came together at Siwdu Park for the first inclusive football match of a new initiative by Betano and ANOPA Project and Ghana Deaf Sports Federation, using the power of sport to promote equal participation, challenge misconceptions about disability and strengthen community connections.
The initiative marks Betano’s first corporate social responsibility initiative in Ghana and brings together 160 young adults aged 18–35, including deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing participants, creating opportunities to play, learn and develop as equal teammates.
Building on the first match, the initiative will bring participants together through structured football training sessions, community matches and an inclusive football festival.
It will also equip coaches, referees and volunteers with skills in inclusive coaching, deaf awareness and accessible communication, helping create a more welcoming sporting environment.
Beyond the pitch, the partnership reflects Betano’s commitment to supporting community initiatives that use sport to create positive social impact. Through accessible football activities, the programme aims to foster inclusion, strengthen community ties and empower young people to become team captains, peer leaders and advocates for equality.
With at least 40% of participants and youth leaders expected to be women, the initiative also promotes gender equality and greater female representation in sport and leadership.
“Sport has the power to bring people together and create opportunities for everyone to participate, belong and thrive. Through Betano’s first CSR initiative in Ghana, we are proud to partner with ANOPA Project to help make football more inclusive and bring our Challenge Your Limits philosophy to life.
By supporting young people in developing their skills, confidence and leadership, we aim to contribute to communities where everyone has theopportunity to participate and reach their potential,” said Daniel Lamberti, Senior BusinessDevelopment Advisor at Kaizen Gaming.
At ANOPA Project we believe football can bring deaf and hearing young people together to build friendships, strengthen wellbeing and grow as leaders, creating a sense of belonging that extends beyond the pitch” said Ernest Appiah, Executive Director of ANOPA Project.
