Mustapha Ussif, the Minister for Youth and Sports, has addressed misconceptions surrounding the $47 million operational budget allocated for the Accra 2023 African Games. Ghana is hosting the African Games for the first time, welcoming over 13,000 participants from 55 African countries, including athletes, technical officials, volunteers, and guests.

Mustapha Ussif clarified that the $47 million budget is not limited to the period from March 8 to March 23 but encompasses the comprehensive operations of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC). The budget covers various aspects of organizing the competition, starting from the formation of the LOC in October 2020.

Key areas of expenditure outlined by Ussif include technical meetings with TCAG (Technical Coordination and Advisory Group), guideline preparation, rules and regulations development, sensitization, games management system, accommodation for participants, internal transportation, airfare for officials, catering services, security, allowances, accreditation, medical equipment, medals, office rent, logistics, equipment purchase, anti-doping services, and members’ allowances.

The minister emphasized that unlike in football, where the Confederation of African Football covers team accommodation, the host country bears the cost of hotel bills for all participating football teams. This expense is also included in the overall budget.

Ussif highlighted the significant benefits of hosting the African Games, such as improved sports facilities and extensive international exposure. Despite being regarded as an expensive tournament due to its multiple sports disciplines and widespread participation, hosting the African Games offers host nations valuable long-term advantages.