Accra, Ghana – May 9, 2026: GBfoods, a prominent producer and distributor of Gino food products in Ghana, has provided financial and food donations through the May 9 Charity Foundation. The gesture aims to support families affected by the tragic Accra Sports Stadium disaster and assist other vulnerable populations in Ghana.
Context of the Disaster
The donations coincide with the 25th anniversary of the devastating stampede that occurred on May 9, 2001. The incident took place during a high-stakes football match between rival clubs Accra Hearts of Oak SC and Asante Kotoko SC.
The stampede resulted in the deaths of over 126 football supporters and left many others injured. It remains one of the deadliest tragedies in the history of African football, leaving a profound impact on the nation.
Unfulfilled Promises and Calls for Justice
While the Government of Ghana established a disaster fund to aid affected families, many victims’ families report receiving minimal benefits over the years. A significant source of ongoing pain is the lack of accountability, as the commission formed to investigate the disaster did not identify any individuals as directly responsible for the fatalities.
This lack of justice has fueled disappointment among the families who lost loved ones and suffered injuries during the event.
The Role of the May 9 Charity Foundation
Former Asante Kotoko chairman, Herbert Mensah, has consistently led efforts through the May 9 Charity Foundation. The foundation’s work focuses on supporting the families of the disaster victims and extending help to other vulnerable groups within Ghanaian society.
The foundation’s interventions are diverse, including funding life-saving surgeries for children with hole-in-heart conditions. They also provide assistance to victims of gas explosions and floods, aid for individuals with physical challenges, and support for the educational needs of underprivileged families.
GBfoods’ Corporate Social Responsibility
GBfoods stated that its contribution to the May 9 Charity Foundation is an integral part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives in Ghana. The company aims to make a positive impact on the communities where it operates.
Partnership for Children’s Heart Surgeries
In recent years, the Shen Yang and Shen Yuet Children’s Heart Foundation has collaborated with Herbert Mensah and the May 9 Foundation. This partnership has been instrumental in sponsoring critical surgeries for children suffering from hole-in-heart disease.
The foundation is named in honor of Shen Yang, a 17-year-old survivor of a hole-in-heart condition, and his brother Shen Yuet. They are the sons of Chinese investor Y.C. Shen, the founder and chairman of SUNDA and KEDA International Group of Companies.
Impact and Future Commitments
Herbert Mensah, who also serves as the Secretary for the Shen Yang and Shen Yuet Children’s Heart Foundation, reported that 117 children have successfully undergone surgeries at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. He noted that some children could not be saved due to delayed medical intervention.
The cost of each surgery ranges between $6,000 and $14,000, with all medical expenses fully covered by the foundation. Mr. Mensah expressed a commitment to continue this life-saving work, stating, “we intend to undertake between 20 and 30 surgeries every year for the next 10 years.”
Appreciation to Supporters
Mr. Mensah extended his gratitude to all sponsors and organizations that contribute to the foundation’s humanitarian efforts. He specifically mentioned GBfoods, Sunda International, Softcare Sanitary Pad, Interplast, the Shen Yang and Shen Yuet Children’s Heart Foundation, the Kesben Group, and various media organizations for their invaluable support.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing support from corporate entities like GBfoods highlights a growing trend of corporate social responsibility linked to historical tragedies and ongoing humanitarian needs. The continued commitment to the children’s heart program suggests a long-term impact on pediatric healthcare in Ghana. Observers will watch to see if other corporations follow suit and if the momentum for accountability and support for the stadium disaster victims gains further traction in the coming years.
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