Ghana Set to Host 24th African Athletics Championships as Global Leaders and Elite Teams Arrive

Ghana is buzzing with anticipation as the nation prepares to host the 24th African Senior Athletics Championships at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium from May 12 to 17, 2026. Athletes from powerhouse nations, including Botswana, Ethiopia, and Kenya, have already touched down in Accra, beginning intensive training sessions to acclimatize and familiarize themselves with the world-class facilities. The event will officially kick off with a grand opening ceremony on May 11, which is expected to feature performances by some of the continent's top musicians, setting a festive tone for the high-stakes competition ahead.

Preparations for the continental showdown have received a significant boost from World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, who commended the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the Ghana Athletics Association for their diligent planning. Coe highlighted the success of Ghana’s recent national championships and celebrated the milestone qualification of the country's 4x100m relay team for the 2027 World Championships. Emphasizing Africa's historic and ongoing contributions to the world of athletics, Coe underscored the vital importance of hosting elite events on the continent to inspire the next generation of global stars.

On the track, Team Ghana is drawing significant attention for its blend of seasoned athletes and emerging teenage sensations. While the national squad faces a notable challenge due to the injury of star sprinter Benjamin Azamati, excitement is mounting over the inclusion of four senior high school girls in the senior women’s 4x100m relay team. Aisha Jaffar, Gladys Boateng, Adelaide Fosuaa, and Leticia Ohenewaa, who recently captured gold in Abidjan, are being tipped to make a major impact. Their transition from the Ashanti Super Zonals to the senior continental stage is being hailed as a testament to Ghana's burgeoning sprint depth and effective grassroots development.

As the final countdown begins, the atmosphere at the University of Ghana is electric. The championships represent a pivotal moment in Ghana’s sporting history, providing a platform for local athletes to secure continental glory while showcasing the nation's organizational capacity on the international stage. With the home crowd behind them, Ghana’s "sprint queens" and the rest of the national squad will be looking to leverage the home advantage and cement their status among Africa's athletic elite.