2023 African Games: GBC was paid more than $3 million, says Sports Minister

Mustapha Ussif, the Minister of Youth and Sports, has stated that Ghana Broadcasting (GBC) Corporation was paid over $3 million for the coverage of the 2023 African Games.

The quadrennial event which was originally slated to be held in 2023 was rescheduled to take place in March 2024.

Responding to claims that there were pending payments to be made to workers who facilitated the broadcast of the sporting event, the minister during a Public Accounts Committee hearing on Monday, August 19, 2024, said, “Yes, GBC was the official broadcaster for the 13th All African Games, and I can confirm that full payment was made to GBC. I can’t remember the exact amount, but I know it’s in excess of $3 million.

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The Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram Sam George, also a member on the committee raised these concerns and promised to look into the issue more thoroughly when GBC representatives testify before the Committee.

Ghanaian fans jubilate after Ghana beat Nigeria to win Gold in U-20 Women’s Football at the African Games. pic.twitter.com/Nl5khHx06Y

— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) March 22, 2024

The Government invested US$195 million in building facilities for the 2023 African Games. Furthermore, the state provided lodging and meals for athletes and officials from participating countries.

Ghana won 69 medals during the 2023 African Games.

Emmanuel Owusu|Akoma Sports|Ghana