The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 13the Africa Games has refuted Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa’s USD$48 million operational budget claim, explaining it covers recurrent expenses and will be provide after the Games’ conclusion.
In response to Hon. Okudzeto Ablakwa’s claim about the USD$48 million operational budget for the 13th African Games, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) issued a press release, signed by the Executive Chairman, Dr. Kweku Ofosu-Asare, emphasized the significant investment required to host pan-continental competitions like the African Games.
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) highlighted the enduring benefits these events bring to the country, such as enhancing the country’s international standing, promoting economic development, and fostering a sense of national unity and pride.
“It is within this context that the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 13the Africa Games notes the release by the Honorable Member of Parliament for North Tongu Constituecy, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and clarifies”.
Dr. Kweku Ofosu-Asare, LOC
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) stated that what the Honorable Member of Parliament put out is a misrepresentation of the facts.
They highlighted that the Local Organising Committee (LOC) was inaugurated by His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, “almost four years ago, and that the operational budget of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) cannot be limited to the 18 days of the Games”.
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) further contended that the false and deceptive impression propagated by Hon. Ablakwa, according to which USD$48 million will be spent between March 8 and 23, is a ruse to distract Ghanaians from the superb work that the Government of Ghana and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have been doing to organise and host the 13th African Games.
The Local Organising Committee’s (LOC) statement also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to organizing one of the best African Games ever held on the continent, underscoring its dedication to transparency and accountability in the process.
“This the first time Ghana is getting the opportunity to host the most significant sporting tournament in Africa since it was first established in 1965”.
Dr. Kweku Ofosu-Asare, LOC
They also reiterated the significant costs associated with hosting the Games, including expenses in the areas of Medical and Anti-doping, Transport, Accommodation, Catering, Branding of the Games Management System, Team Ghana preparation, Broadcasting, and Equipment for 29 sporting disciplines, among others.
In addition, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) stated that the Organising Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, will continue to remain transparent in our dealings with the public as they strive to host one of the best organised Games on the continent.
In so doing the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Hon. Mustapha Ussif will continue to engage the general public and also, address Parliament in due course on Ghana’s readiness for the African Games. In a related development, Hon. Mustapha Ussif will have a meet-the-press session on the 4th March, 2024 to update Ghanaian on the African Games.
This response contradicts Ablakwa’s allegations, which were based on intercepted documents he claimed to possess, revealing an operational expenses budget for the Games that he described as “elephantine, wrongful, and unconscionable.” The Local Organising Committee’s (LOC) explanation suggests a different perspective on the budget allocation, emphasizing that the funds are intended for ongoing expenses related to the event, rather than a one-time, massive outlay.
Benefits of hosting the Africa Games
Hosting the Africa Games can bring numerous economic and social benefits to Ghana. The event provides an opportunity for infrastructure development. The country invested in building or upgrading sports facilities, transportation networks, and accommodation options. These investments have long-term benefits for the local community, attracting tourism and stimulating economic growth.
The Africa Games also serve as a catalyst for social development. The event promotes sports participation and healthy lifestyles among the population, inspiring future generations of athletes. It fosters a sense of national pride and unity, bringing people from diverse backgrounds together to support their country’s athletes.
Furthermore, hosting major sporting events like the Africa Games can enhance Ghana’s international reputation. It showcases the country’s ability to organize and manage large-scale events, attracting positive attention from around the world. This increased visibility can lead to opportunities for trade.
In conclusion, the Africa Games’ operational budget should be viewed in perspective, considering its unique context and the broader impact of hosting such an event. Transparency and accountability remain key principles in budgeting for major sporting events, ensuring that funds are used effectively for the benefit of athletes, countries, and communities.
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