Ghana has officially set the stage for one of the continent’s premier track and field events, following the colourful launch of the 2026 CAA African Senior Athletics Championships in Accra on Thursday evening.
The ceremony, held at the tennis court of the Accra Sports Stadium, marked the formal unveiling of the 24th edition of the championship, which the country will host from May 12 to 17, 2026, at the University of Ghana Stadium.
President of the Ghana Athletics Association, Bawa Fuseini, revealed that all 54 African nations are expected to participate, bringing together some of the continent’s finest talents.
Among the headline athletes anticipated for the competition are Kenya’s Faith Chepkoech and Beatrice Chebet. Relay powerhouses, including South Africa’s 4x100m team and Botswana’s 4x400m squad, are also expected to feature prominently.
Organisers say preparations are being stepped up to ensure the event meets global standards. Plans are underway to procure additional electronic timing equipment to align with requirements for elite competitions such as the World Athletics Championships and the Olympic Games.
Officials stressed their determination to avoid technical setbacks that have affected previous events in countries such as Kenya and Nigeria.
In a further boost to preparations, about 120 technical officials have already undergone training, with roughly 100 expected to officiate during the championships.
The launch attracted key figures in Ghana’s sports administration, including Board Chairman of the National Sports Authority, Prof. Awaah; Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddi Adams; Director-General of the NSA, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah; and Administrator of the Ghana Sports Fund, David Kofi Wuaku. Representatives from the Ghana Olympic Committee, various sports federations, and the media were also in attendance.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Iddi Adams reaffirmed government’s commitment to successfully hosting the championships, assuring that all sporting disciplines would receive the necessary support. He also urged Ghanaians to appreciate the operationalisation of the Sports Fund, following its approval by Parliament.
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