Construction work for a basketball court jointly funded by a Greek government donation has begun at St. Nicholas Greek school in Tema, Ghana, the Foreign Affairs Ministry tweeted on Friday.
The court will be named "Giannis Antetokounmpo", following the proposal made by Foreign Affairs Minister Nikos Dendias during his visit to the school in January, added the ministry.
It is recalled that the Greek foreign minister visited the West African country in January.
In speaking at the time, he said: "I have to say that St. Nicholas for us, for the Greek government, for the Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis is something very important.
"First of all, we would like to acknowledge what the Tsakos Foundation has done for St. Nicholas, and what Mytilineos has done for St.Nicholas.
"It is extremely important, extremely important, in Africa which is the fastest growing continent in the world, to have a good education. And what we are trying to do, dear Fathers, is not to change reality but just to set a small example.
"What is important is that it comes deep from everybody’s heart. And I am coming here also with a small donation which will allow the young to be constructive and also, more importantly, to make a basketball team.
"As you know, we Greeks are good at basketball. We have won the European championship. We have even won over the United States once.
"But there is a small request I would like to put to your kind judgment. I would please ask you for a name in that field. A name that unites Greece with Africa. I would be very proud if, when I come again, to see you playing on that basketball court, the name of the court would be 'Giannis Antetokounmpo'.
"Again, thank you so much for the extreme joy you have given me today. And, I am sorry but, you know, Grown-ups sometimes get a little sentimental. Again, thank you so much deep from the bottom of my heart.
"Thank you. All the best to your lives. Thank you."
READ MORE: The History and Contributions of the Greeks of Africa.