Spectacular 13th African Games Officially Opened By President Akufo-Addo

The 13^th African Fames has been officially opened to a spectacular and amazing performance by top artistes sensational King Promise, versatile Kamo Mphel, Pat Thomas, Ebo Taylor and Shatta Wale, the self acclaimed king of Dancehall music at the Legon Sports Stadium last Friday night.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo declared the Games open, emphasizing the importance of unity and showcasing Africa’s rich diversity through sports.

He encouraged the athletes to strive for excellence, highlighting the role of sports in unifying the continent.

“As you compete in the games in the coming days, remember that your efforts inspire countless individuals across the continent. Strive for excellence, push your limits and showcase the immense talents that Africa possesses,” he said.

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, noted that Ghana would deliver an unforgettable competition, supported by state-of-the-art sporting facilities.

Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat was at the opening ceremony alongside other dignitaries in sports.

Chairman of the LOC Dr. Kwaku Ososu-Asare said the Games is a dream come true and commended all who contributed, including the contractors, media, athletes and government of Ghana.

Ghana is hosting the Games dubbed Accra 2023 for the first time from March 8 to March 23.

Over 5,000 athletes and officials will compete in 29 sports in the competition. eight of the disciplines will serve as qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games in July and August.

The opening ceremony drew all the contingents who have arrived in Accra for the special sports festival.

The Games Village at the University of Ghana, Legon was also lighted after the opening ceremony as athletes and officials moved round to socialize..

52 African nations are represented, except Cape Verde and Chad.

Vice President Bawumia commissioned the University of Ghana Sports Stadium and Rugby Field ahead of the competition while President Akufo-Addo inaugurated the new Borteyman Sports Complex.

Other venues to be used for the Games are the Accra International Conference Center, Trust Sports Emporium, Laboma Beach, Alisa Hotel, Achimota Cricket Oval, Theodocia Okoh Hockey Stadium, Accra Sports Stadium and Cape Coast Sports Stadium.

The government of Ghana had spent $195 million on infrastructure and operating on a budget of $47.7 million for the Games.

Team Ghana compose almost 500 athletes to compete in disciplines, including Arm wrestling, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball (3×3), Beach volleyball, Boxing, Cricket, Cycling, Diving, Field Hockey, Football, Handball, Judo, Karate-do, Netball, Rugby sevens, Squash, Swimming, Table tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Volleyball, Weightlifting, Wrestling, and demonstration sports such as E-sports, Mixed Martial Arts, Pickleball, Teqball, Scrabble and Speed-ball.

By Sammy Heywood Okine