The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, has revealed that Ghana is prepared to stage the 2023 African Games.
Mustapha Ussif, who was speaking at the launch of mascot and logo for the 2023 African Games competition, promised that the government will commit adequate resources to ensure that the sports festival becomes a success.
Expressing his confidence, he said that the 2023 African Games tournament will be a great advertisement of the country’s sporting and culture heritage and leave undeletable memories on the minds of people.
“The ceremony taking place today is a clear message to the whole world that Ghana is ready, willing and capable of hosting and organizing a benchmarking event which will leave a lasting legacy not only for Ghana but for the continent of Africa.” the Sports Minister said.
Mustapha Ussif also gave details about the mascot and logo and what informed the decision of the ministry and Local Organizing Committee to adopt the eagle as the symbol of the competition.
“The wisdom behind the Mascot is that the eagle symbolizes courage, strength, focus and immortality.
“Eagles fly higher than any other bird. The height of success that those with eagle mentality can achieve is amazing. Generally, those with eagle mentality are strong, brave, creative, insightful and visionary.
“We have taken the posture of the eagle and success is our only option. It is against this background that the Ministry in collaboration with the LOC settled on ƆKODIƐ – the Eagle.”
After beating Egypt in 2018, Ghana earned the right to stage the competition.
There have been uncertainties about the country’s commitment to organizing the competition following supposed delays in works on the Olympic Stadium.
However, the government has consistently assured the facilities will be ready for the competition.