Sports

Ghana’s Sports Minister Emphasizes Africa’s Capability to Host Commonwealth Games, Extends Welcome to Federation President

Published

3 years ago

March 18, 2024

Ghana’s Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif has asserted Africa’s readiness to take on the initiative of hosting the Commonwealth Games, expressing confidence in the continent’s capabilities to deliver a successful event.

He made this known during a consultative meeting with the President of the Commonwealth Federation, Chris Jenkins OBE, which brought together ministers of sports and other key stakeholders from across Africa. It took place at the Lancaster Hotel in Accra on Sunday.

In a gracious gesture, Ussif extended gratitude to Chris Jenkins, President of the Commonwealth Games Federation, for his inaugural visit to Ghana, highlighting its significance as a testament to the Federation’s commitment to Africa.

“We welcome this opportunity to interface with you and the Commonwealth Games Federation,” stated Minister Ussif. He emphasized the importance of establishing a sustainable and cost-effective hosting model, urging his colleagues in the Ministry of Sports to align with the mission and values of the Commonwealth Games Federation in their pursuit of hosting various activities within the Commonwealth family.

“It is time for Africa to take on this initiative, and I believe we can do it,” declared Minister Ussif. “We owe it to the athletes to host the Games that will enable us to showcase their talents”

He stressed the importance of collaboration with the Commonwealth Games Association, emphasizing the necessity of close cooperation to realize the dream of hosting the Games on African soil.

Ussif drew attention to the ongoing African Games as a testament to the region’s sporting prowess. He called upon governments and fellow ministers to prioritize sports, particularly the Commonwealth Games, emphasizing its broader impact beyond mere competition.

As Ghana continues to deliver its excellent hospitality at the African Games, Minister Mustapha Ussif’s advocacy for Africa’s capability to host the Commonwealth Games reflects the country’s commitment to advancing sports development and fostering international cooperation within the Commonwealth family.

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Sports

29 Days To AACT 2026: IBB Club Renewal Heralds Nigeria’s African Golf Showcase

Published

8 hours ago

October 4, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With 29 days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria is stepping up preparations to host the continental women’s team golf championship, with the extensive rehabilitation of the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja providing a major boost to the country’s readiness.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja Director of Communication AACT 2026, Kayode Adeniyi said the Club’s Board of Trustees has assured that the facility will be fully prepared to welcome golfers, officials and delegates from across Africa when the championship tees off on November 2.

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, gave the assurance after inspecting ongoing rehabilitation works at the Club, expressing satisfaction with the progress recorded so far.

The IBB International Golf and Country Club has undergone extensive rehabilitation following its closure to regular golfing activities for more than a year. The intervention has focused on the golf course, selected holes, the clubhouse and other key facilities required to provide a befitting venue for the continental championship.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the rehabilitation programme would be completed in time for the AACT, further reassuring stakeholders that the Club would be ready to host Africa’s leading female golfers.

Chairman of the Club’s Interim Management Committee, Peter Deshi, also expressed optimism over the progress of work, with regular golfing activities expected to resume ahead of the championship.

For the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the readiness of the host venue remains a critical component of the country’s preparations.

President of the Association, Dr. Lami Ahmed, has similarly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparations to stage a successful championship.

The 2026 AACT is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

With the countdown now entering its final month, the rehabilitation of the Club is sending a strong message about Nigeria’s determination to deliver a successful championship and provide a worthy stage for Africa’s finest female golfers.

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