The fourth edition of the OMJ SoccerFest-Akuapem South 2026, themed “Ahwerase 2026,” officially launched on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Arrow’s Lounge in Aburi. The event, which included the official draw for the tournament, saw a significant turnout of stakeholders, traditional leaders, football administrators, participating teams, media, and supporters, marking the commencement of activities leading up to the finals in July.
Community and Tradition Unite for SoccerFest
The launch event underscored the tournament’s commitment to youth empowerment and community development, with strong representation from the Ahwerase Traditional Council. Nana Amoako Ansah, the Ampomoahene, representing the Council, pledged support and assured participants of a peaceful and harmonious competition in Ahwerase, the designated host community for this year’s finals.
Osei Mensah Joseph (OMJ), Founder and CEO of the OMJ Foundation, expressed his gratitude for the sustained commitment from stakeholders. He urged players to perform at their best while emphasizing discipline, respect, teamwork, and character development as key takeaways from the tournament, not just victory.
“Never allow your current condition to define your future. Your background should not limit your destiny. There is hope ahead. There is greatness within you. Keep believing. Keep working. Keep dreaming,” Joseph stated, encouraging the youth of Akuapem South Municipality.
Exciting Draw and Attractive Prizes Unveiled
A major highlight was the official draw, which grouped the 16 participating teams. The pairings generated considerable excitement, with several matches anticipated to be highly competitive, including a widely discussed “Group of Death.” Organizers also revealed a compelling prize package designed to motivate teams and individual players.
The rewards include cash prizes, trophies, medals, jerseys, citations, and honorary plaques. These incentives aim to enhance the competitive spirit throughout the tournament.
Beyond Football: A Festival of Community Engagement
The OMJ SoccerFest ’26 extends beyond the football pitch with a series of side activities designed to foster unity, promote culture, stimulate business, and improve community wellbeing. These include the “Akuapem All-Black Street Carnival” on the eve of the tournament, the “Akuapem Business and Innovation Fair (Exhibition),” an inter-community cooking competition, and a free health screening exercise.
The strong media presence from both traditional and digital outlets at the launch signifies the growing influence and stature of the OMJ SoccerFest brand within Akuapem South and surrounding areas.
A Platform for Growth and Transformation
The OMJ SoccerFest-Akuapem South has established itself as a significant grassroots football competition, utilizing sports as a catalyst for youth development, talent identification, social cohesion, and community transformation. The theme for this year, “From the Pitch to the People: Uniting to Build for Progress,” encapsulates this broader vision.
The tournament is scheduled to run from July 3 to July 5, 2026, and is anticipated to be one of the most successful and competitive editions to date.
Looking Ahead
With the official launch and draw complete, attention now shifts to the participating teams as they prepare for the rigorous competition. The success of the side events, particularly the Business and Innovation Fair and the health screening, will be crucial in demonstrating the tournament’s wider community impact. Observers will watch to see if “Ahwerase 2026” can indeed unite the community and foster progress as its theme suggests, potentially setting a new benchmark for grassroots sports initiatives in the region.
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