African Athletics Championships: Ghana Prepares for Accra 2026
Preparations are in full swing as Ghana gears up to host the 2026 African Athletics Championships, known as Accra 2026.
With the continent’s top track and field athletes set to compete in the Ghanaian capital, a technical working group has begun assembling the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to ensure the successful execution of this prestigious event.
President of Ghana Athletics (GA), Bawa Fuseini, told the Daily Graphic that while significant progress has been made, the final steps await the appointment of a new Minister of Sports and Recreation.
“Since our return from Douala last December, Ghana Athletics, the National Sports Authority (NSA), and the Sports Ministry have held multiple planning meetings,” Mr. Bawa stated. “The LOC is almost complete, but we have paused some activities until the new minister assumes office.”
Venue and Facilities
Mr. Bawa confirmed that the University of Ghana Athletics Stadium, which played a key role during the 13th African Games (Accra 2023), has been selected as the primary venue for the championships.
Other facilities used during Accra 2023, including athlete accommodations, will also be utilized for Accra 2026.
“An office has been established at the University of Ghana Athletics Stadium for the LOC,” he revealed. “Once the committee is finalized, they will immediately begin work to ensure we deliver an outstanding championship.”
He further noted that an assessment of technical requirements has already been conducted, and plans are in place for any necessary re-training of personnel.
“We have learned valuable lessons from the challenges of preparing for the 2023 African Games and are committed to ensuring everything runs smoothly this time,” he added.
Ghana’s Commitment to Excellence
Expressing confidence in Ghana’s ability to host a world-class competition, Mr. Bawa emphasized the country’s commitment to building on the success of the 2023 African Games.
“All 54 African nations will participate. Hosting the 2023 African Games helped Ghana secure the bid for the African Athletics Championships, and we are determined to uphold the same high standards while delivering the best edition yet,” he said.
Securing Hosting Rights
Ghana was awarded the hosting rights for the 2026 African Athletics Championships in June 2024 after a competitive bid against Botswana.
The decision was made by the Executive Council of the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) during its meeting on the sidelines of the 2024 African Athletics Championships in Douala, Cameroon. The selection panel included the CAA President, six vice presidents representing Africa’s regional zones, and the chairperson of the Athletes’ Commission.
With preparations well underway, Ghana is on course to deliver a landmark event in African athletics.