Accra will host the 2026 African Senior Athletics Championships from May 12 to 17 at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The event comes two years after Ghana hosted the African Games. Organisers say the country is ready to deliver another successful competition.
About 54 countries are expected to take part in the 24th edition. It will also serve as the first major outdoor meet of the season. Many athletes will use it to prepare for the Commonwealth Games.
Officials launched the event last week in Accra. The ceremony marked the start of the countdown to the championships. It brought together Sports Minister Kofi Adams, officials from the Ghana Olympic Committee, and Ghana Athletics.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Adams said Ghana would build on the success of the 2023 African Games. He assured that the government remains committed to hosting a world-class event. He added that President John Dramani Mahama supports efforts to grow athletics in the country.
He also called on businesses to invest in the sport. According to him, athletics offers strong branding and marketing opportunities.
“Africa is coming to Accra,” he said. “We want visitors to feel at home and see that Ghana is ready.”
Top athletes from across the continent are expected to compete. Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan, the world record holder in the 100m hurdles, is among the stars set to feature. Strong relay teams from South Africa and Botswana are also expected.
Ghana will rely on its top performers, including Rose Amoanimaa Yeboah, Joseph Paul Amoah, Benjamin Azamati, and Ibrahim Fuseini. Others include Isaac Botsio, Edwin Gadayi, and Abdul-Rasheed Saminu.
Fans can also expect exciting rivalries, especially between Ghana and Nigeria.
Ghana Athletics President Bawa Fuseini described the launch as a shift from planning to action. He said organisers will now provide regular updates on progress.
He noted that key committees are already at work. These include teams handling accommodation, transport, security, and media. He added that preparations will speed up ahead of a final inspection by the Confederation of African Athletics.
Organisers plan to house athletes at the University of Ghana’s Limann Hall. Work on the facility will intensify once the university goes on break.
Mr Fuseini said the goal is to recreate the lively atmosphere seen during the African Games. He added that over 100 trained officials will support the event. Organisers will also procure electronic timing equipment to meet international standards.
