The Duamenefa Foundation has expressed sincere apologies to H.E. Dr. Gabriel Kwamigah Tanko Atokple (Torgbi Nyaxordeakorla I) following concerns surrounding his sponsorship of young and talented footballer Freeman Gakli, who was identified during the 2025 Duamenefa Regional Tournament.
On behalf of the Duamenefa Foundation, the Executive President, Mr. Ketaman Emmanuel Evortepe, expressed sincere apologies to H.E. Dr. Gabriel Kwamigah Tanko Atokple (Torgbi Nyaxordeakorla I) over what happened in connection with his support for the young footballer.
According to Mr. Evortepe, Torgbi Nyaxordeakorla I made significant financial commitment towards the sponsorship of Mr. Freeman Gakli to travel abroad in pursuit of greater opportunities in his football career.
He said the Foundation condemns the manipulations by individuals closely link with the management of Freeman in changing the narratives to their advantage
Mr. Evortepe noted that documents relating to the sponsorship and arrangements show that Torgbi Nyaxordeakorla I spent substantial amounts of money on supporting the young footballer and facilitating his opportunity to travel abroad based on the agreement between the Sesi Edem Football Academy and the Duamenefa Foundation.
He said the Foundation recognizes the effort, commitment and resources invested in Freeman Gakli after the young talent was identified during the 2025 Duamenefa Regional Tournament.
He stressed that the Foundation condemns in no uncertain terms the unforeseen level of allegations of technicalities employed by the perpetrators of this daylight scheming
Mr. Evortepe also stated that the Foundation will develop a future plan and put appropriate measures in place to help prevent similar situations from occurring again, particularly when individuals invest their resources in supporting young talents.
He appealed to H.E. Dr. Gabriel Kwamigah Tanko Atokple not to consider the situation as a reason to stop his good works or his support for young people.
According to him, the sponsorship of Freeman Gakli demonstrates the importance of individuals using their resources to create opportunities for young talents, and such efforts should continue despite challenges that may arise.
Mr. Evortepe encouraged Torgbi Nyaxordeakorla I to remain committed to his good works and continue supporting the development of young talents. Mr. Ketaman expressed hope that God would find a way to repay him and help him recover the losses he incurred through his support for the young footballer.
Caution to Club Owners and Scouts
The Executive President also cautioned club owners and scouts who participate in the Duamenefa Regional Tournament to be very careful in carrying out their activities in connection with the tournament.
He urged club owners and scouts to follow the due process in identifying, recruiting, sponsoring or facilitating opportunities for young footballers who emerge from the Duamenefa Regional Tournament.
Mr. Evortepe stressed the importance of proper procedures and documentation to ensure transparency and protect the interests of the young talents, their families, clubs and all other parties involved.
He said adherence to the appropriate process would help prevent misunderstandings and situations that could undermine the efforts made to develop and support young footballers.
The Executive President reiterated that the Duamenefa Foundation appreciates individuals who invest their resources in the development of young talents and remains committed to promoting the welfare and advancement of the youth.
He emphasized that the Foundation’s follow-up on the matter is intended to establish the facts, protect the interests of those involved and help ensure that similar situations can be prevented in the future.
By Hutor Dziwornu,Fafaa 100.3 FM,Dzodze
Edited by, Isabella Evortepe, Fafaa 100.3 Fm