Ghana’s Minister for Youth and Sports Mustapha Ussif, on Monday February 5, made a surprise visit to the camps of athletes shaping up for the forthcoming 13th African Games ‘Accra 2023.
The athletes are camping in hotels in the Central Region – Cape Coast, Winneba Sports College and train at the Cape Coast Stadium and the University of Cape Coast.
The sports in camp include boxing, arm wrestling, athletics, weightlifting, handball, volleyball and basketball who had been in camp since January 19.
Ussif said he was delighted with the atmosphere in camp and the preparedness of the athletes who are eager to compete and win.
“I am so excited and happy about what I have seen. The athletes and officials can testify that this is the first time they are having a long duration of camping in the history of Ghana with improved facilities and conditions of service,” he said.
“I came here to ensure they have arrived and they are happy. Both the athletes and officials have indicated they are excited. I am equally happy.”
The athletes were excited as the Minister inspired them while they expressed eagerness to make Ghana proud at the Games.
The minister however, charged the team to remain focused and committed to the task ahead, while he reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting them with the needed resources to excel.
“The African Games presents Team Ghana an opportunity to win medals for Ghana, foster a sense of national unity, pride, and identity, through sports.
“Our collective spirit and encouragement will continue to be a driving force behind the success of Team Ghana so let’s come together and rally behind them, as they begin their preparations. Together, we can showcase the true spirit of Ghana,” he added.
25 sporting disciplines will be competed at the 23th African Games to be held in Legon, Borteyman, Accra Sports Stadium, Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium as well as the Cape Coast Stadium.
The biggest sports festival in Africa is coming to Ghana for the first time from March 8 to 23 as over 5,000 athletes, coaches and officials will assemble in the West African nation for the sports fiesta.