African Games: Ghana gears up with record contingent

As the countdown to the 13th African Games ticks away, Ghana, playing host for the first time in the event's 58-year history, is poised to field its largest contingent ever.

The Chef de Mission for Team Ghana, Mr. Ernest Danso, unveiled this historic development during a press soiree held last Friday at the Head Office of the Local Organising Committee in Accra.

He said Ghana will present a formidable team of over 560 athletes, which surpasses the 401 athletes fielded by the 2019 hosts, Morocco. The significant increase underscores Ghana's commitment to making a mark on the continental stage.

Addressing concerns in the media about Team Ghana's readiness, Mr. Danso categorically debunked such reports, stating that athletes are diligently preparing in their respective disciplines and will soon enter training camps.

Contrary to speculations, he reassured the public, saying, "I want to assure Ghanaians that Team Ghana is poised and ready. We are not sitting idle, and we promise that there will be medals from the team."

The Chef de Mission highlighted ongoing preparations across various sporting disciplines, including the recent return of the Beach Volleyball team from South Africa. Mr. Danso outlined plans for imminent training camps, emphasizing the comprehensive readiness of Team Ghana.

With expectations high, Ghana anticipates the arrival of 3,500 elite athletes from 54 African countries for the Games, scheduled to take place from March 8 to March 23, 2024. The multisport extravaganza will 23 competitive events in athletics, badminton, cycling, swimming, table tennis, tennis, triathlon and weightlifting which will serve as Olympic qualifiers.

The remaining events which are non-Olympic qualifying events include arm wrestling, beach volley, basketball 3x3, boxing, chess, cricket, football and handball.

Key sporting venues, including the Borteyman Multisport Complex, University of Ghana Sports Facilities, Achimota Cricket Oval, and Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium, are set to host various events, providing a dynamic backdrop for the highly anticipated African Games.