By Dela Ahiawor
North African nation, Egypt has been chosen to host the next, 14th African Games.
The symbolic handing over of the African Union flag was done at the closing ceremony of the 13th edition of the African Games which was successfully took place in Accra, Ghana.
Hon. Mustapha Ussif, the Youth & Sports Minister of Ghana handed over the flag to the African Union (AU) Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Minata Samate Cessouma, who then presented it to the Egyptian Minister of Youth & Sports, Ashraf Sobhy.
Ghana hosted the African Games for the first time since its inception in 1965.
This is the second time that Egypt will host the quadrillion sports festival.
Egypt placed first at Accra 2023 with a total of 187 medals (99 gold, 46 silver and 42 bronze).
Ghana placed sixth with 68 medals (19 gold, 269 silver and 20 bronze), making the sports authorities and Ghanaians happy, hoping to reach the top three in the next edition.
In his parting address, President Akufo-Addo expressed his pride and gratitude, emphasizing on how the event provided an opportunity to strengthen bonds and socio-economic relations between African countries.
The President extolled the high level of performance by the over 5,000 athletes and the dedication of officials and volunteers involved in the games.
“These games embodied the true spirit of African diversity, unity, and our common purpose of promoting our continent,” he said.
“The outstanding performances, display of sportsmanship, and competition that produced personal bests, national records, and competition records will undoubtedly inspire upcoming athletes to aim even higher,” the President added.
President Akufo-Addo articulated his delight that despite challenges, Ghana was able to provide world-class sporting facilities. He mentioned the construction and rehabilitation of facilities such as the Borteyman Sports Complex, University of Ghana Stadium, Theodosia Okoh Stadium, Achimota Cricket Oval and Bukom Boxing Arena, as proof of Ghana’s commitment to meritking sports development.
He was confident that the facilities would be maintained and serve as venues for training future champions and hosting local and international tournaments, as well as become the nucleus of a soon-to-be-established University of Sports for Development.
The President also expressed gratitude to all Ghanaians for their enthusiastic support of the athletes throughout the competition. He congratulated the athletes on their performances and urged them to carry their good form into the Paris Olympics to bring further glory to the continent.
“May the memories of these Games inspire us to work towards a brighter, more prosperous and more united future for Africa and her peoples. Accordingly, ladies and gentlemen, I have the pleasure to declare the 13th African Games (Accra 2023), successfully closed”
