By Simon Asare, GNA
Accra, May 12, GNA – Ghana showcased its rich cultural heritage at a colourful opening ceremony of the 24th African Senior Athletics Championships at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, as athletes from 49 countries converged in Accra for the continental event.
Over the next six days, some of Africa’s top athletes would compete in track and field events for honours in a championship expected to deliver high-level competition.
Addressing the ceremony, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah officially welcomed participating nations and described sports as a vital tool for unity and inspiration across the continent.
“Ghana is proud to host the 24th African Senior Athletics Championships. Sports remains one of the greatest instruments for shaping national pride, inspiring young people and strengthening brotherhood across Africa,” Mr Debrah said.
He noted that athletics, in particular, symbolised human determination and discipline.
“Athletics reminds us that greatness is not inherited but earned through discipline, sacrifice and belief. The spirit of unity is what makes this championship so important,” he added.
Mr Debrah said the championship was not only about competition but also a celebration of Africa’s future excellence and Pan-Africanism, urging athletes to compete fiercely and make their nations proud.
Mr Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister for Sports and Recreation, also welcomed athletes, officials and fans to Accra, describing the event as a family gathering for the continent.
“With pride, I welcome you to Accra for the African Senior Athletics Championships — not just as participants, but as family from every corner of the continent,” he said.
Mr Adams said while medals would be contested over the coming days, the championships highlighted Africa’s continued production of world-class athletes.
“Beyond the medals and successes, this championship reminds us that Africa continues to produce some of the finest athletes the world has ever seen,” he said.
He stressed that stakeholders must move beyond organising competitions to building systems that allow African athletes to train, compete and thrive within the continent.
“For too long, many athletes have faced unnecessary barriers while travelling across Africa for competitions and training opportunities. Young talent should not lose opportunities because movement across Africa is more difficult than outside Africa,” Mr Adams said.
He challenged policymakers and institutions to confront the issue as part of Africa’s integration agenda.
“If Africa is serious about integration, then sports must become part of that integration,” he added.
Mr Lord Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics, said he was honoured to attend the 24th edition of the championships and praised Ghana for hosting the event for the first time in over four decades.
“What lies ahead over the next six days is a unique and compelling celebration of the best of African athletics,” he said. “It brings together some of your greatest athletes, whose dedication and sacrifice will touch the souls of fans.”
Mr Coe said athletics in Africa was in good shape, citing recent successes, including the World Athletics Relays in Botswana and strong performances by African athletes globally.
“We are confident that Accra will provide a magnificent stage for athletes to inspire and entertain over the next six days,” he said.
Award-winning Ghanaian musician Stonebwoy added entertainment flair to the ceremony with a high-energy performance.
Events on the opening day include heats in the men’s 800 metres, men’s and women’s 400 metres, the women’s discus final and the men’s high jump.
The first medals of the competition will be decided in the men’s shot put, the women’s discus, and the women’s 5,000 metres.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Simon Asare
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