After sixteen days of intense competition, cultural exchange, and celebration, the 13th edition of the African Games has come to a spectacular close in the vibrant city of Accra. From the 8th to the 23rd of March, Ghana served as a gracious host, welcoming athletes and delegates from across the continent to participate in this hallmark event of African sport.

As the Games concluded in Accra, the closing ceremony, highlighted by fireworks and celebrations, emphasized Africa's potential and resilience. President Nana Addo remarked, "The African Games stand as a beacon of hope and progress towards the goals outlined in Agenda 2063. With a legacy rooted in fostering unity, sportsmanship, and excellence, the African Games have once again demonstrated the power of sport to transcend boundaries and celebrate the diversity of Africa's nations. Against the backdrop of challenging times globally, the Games provided a beacon of hope, resilience, and solidarity."

He further stressed the importance of the Games in advancing Africa's development agenda and regional integration, saying, "The Games strengthen the bonds of friendship existing amongst African countries... they honor Africa's diversity. The memories created, friendships forged, and lessons learned during these Games will serve as a catalyst for progress and unity across the continent." As Accra bids farewell to the Games, President Akufo-Addo encouraged carrying forward the spirit of solidarity, excellence, and Pan-Africanism that defined these past sixteen days.

On behalf of AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki, Commissioner Amb Cessouma thanked President Nana Akufo-Addo and Minister of Youth & Sports, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, for their relentless efforts in the successful hosting of the Games. She emphasized the importance of reflecting on the broader significance of these achievements within the framework of the African Union's Agenda 2063—a visionary plan aiming for a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful Africa over the next fifty years. Additionally, the Games highlighted the commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in sports, aligning with a key pillar of Agenda 2063. Female athletes from across the continent demonstrated their prowess, breaking stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of African women to aspire toward greatness in sports and other fields.

The Commissioner also presented Former FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura, acknowledging her contributions to promoting women in sports and sports management. Her impact and leadership have been instrumental, serving as an inspiration for numerous female athletes and administrators in Africa and beyond.

In conclusion, the Commissioner applauded the athletes, stating, "Your exceptional dedication and performance at these Games have not only elevated the spirit of competition but have also powerfully showcased the rich potential and resilience of our continent. You are true ambassadors of Africa's vibrant culture and indomitable spirit."

The closing ceremony of the games at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium was a vibrant showcase of African culture, featuring an array of traditional dances, music, and artistic performances. The event was highlighted by performances from top African artists including Ghana's Grammy-nominated Stonebwoy and Afro-pop singer-songwriter Wiyaala, Cameroonian rapper Stanley Enow, and Congolese singer-songwriter and dancer Innoss'B. The jubilant crowd enjoyed a colorful display, marking a memorable end to two weeks of competition.

The Games featured over 5,000 athletes from AU member states, competing in 29 sports across three categories: Olympic qualifying, non-Olympic qualifying, and demonstration sports. The Games included a variety of sports such as Athletics, Boxing, Cycling, and Judo among others. Additionally, the event highlighted emerging sports trends with demonstration sports like Speedball, and Mixed Martial Arts, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of sports entertainment. The top ten countries demonstrated exceptional prowess across these diverse disciplines.

Here's the table displaying the medal counts for the top 10 countries at the 13th African Games: Full list here

The 14th edition of the African Games is set to take place in Egypt in 2027. This event will gather athletes from across the continent to compete in various sports, continuing the tradition of celebrating sportsmanship and unity among African nations. Hosting these games presents an opportunity for Egypt to showcase its facilities, hospitality, and cultural heritage, further strengthening the country's position as a key player in African sports development and on the international stage.

Note to Editor

About the African Games

The African Games is exclusively owned by the African Union and organized on behalf of its member states every 4 years and one year before the Olympics.

The African Games is a multi-disciplinary sporting event with over 20 sporting and brings together sports persons from across the continent who compete in various competitions including Olympic qualifiers.This prestigious event showcases athletic talent, celebrates African cultural values and heritage, promotes solidarity, social cohesion and integration and promotes the values of Pan-Africanism. In addition, the African Games spotlight the importance of investment in sports as a driver of the economic development that will ensure Africa’s achieves the goals of Agenda 2063.

The African Union Sports Council (AUSC)is responsible for coordinating the organisation of the African Games on behalf of the African Union and partners with continental bodies including the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) and the Association of Africa Sports in organising the Games.

Learn more about the mandates and statutes of the African Union Sports Council on https://au.int/en/treaties/statute-africa-sports-council

For more information on the AU Sports Council and African Games 

Dr. Decius Chipande – Coordinator, African Union Sports Council: ChipandeD@africa-union.org

Ms. Lina Kessy - Senior Sport Officer; African Union Sport Council; KessL@africa-union.org

Media contact: Janet Faith Adhiambo Ochieng | Communication Officer- Agenda 2063 | Information and Communication. Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: Ochiengj@Africa-union.org

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