06 August, 2019
Usshertown and Jamestown are two of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city of Accra, Ghana.. While life in these districts remains focused around fishing, they have, for generations, been breeding grounds for international boxing champions.
Together Jamestown and Usshertown are home to more than 20 boxing schools - among the highest density of boxing facilities in the world. Boxing is a serious and respected tradition here, and practiced daily by many Ghanaians.
Yet it's more than just a passion; boxing is a potential ticket out of poverty, unemployment and the absence of opportunity. Jamestown and Usshertown are some of the poorest communities in the city - the economic gains of neighbouring districts peppered with high-rises have not trickled down.
Under a scorching sun, boxers here complete up to six hours of daily training, follow a strict diet and regularly fight and compete. This is a sport of hope and pride.
