Ghanaian athletes are calling on the government to settle unpaid allowances ahead of the country’s participation in the Olympic Games.

Currently based in Strasbourg, France, the athletes are preparing for the games, set to start on July 26 in Paris. Despite medal-winning performances in previous competitions, such as the World Relay Championships in the Bahamas and the African Athletics Championships (AAC) in Douala, Cameroon, the athletes have yet to receive their promised bonuses.

Speaking to Graphic Sports anonymously, the athletes emphasised the need for prompt payment of the bonuses to boost morale ahead of the Olympic Games.

“This issue is becoming prevalent. We were paid per diem during the African Games last June, but we haven't received any allowances for competing in the AAC. We've returned home empty-handed with bills to pay, especially those of us living abroad," they said.

The athletes also requested that payments be made in foreign currencies to reduce the inconveniences associated with cashing out cheques, especially for those overseas.

“We don't have cedi bank accounts. Receiving cheques in the local currency creates problems. We need to authorize family members to handle the cheques, convert the money, and send it to us. By the time we get it, we lose a lot due to transfers and bank charges," they explained. "It's a big disincentive for us."

Responding to the athletes' concerns, President of Ghana Athletics, Bawah Fuseini, acknowledged the delay in the financial commitments and assured that it would be resolved.

"Yes, there are outstanding allowances. I explained to the International Games Committee of the ministry that bonuses for medals at the AAC should be treated like those at AFCON. We're pushing for bonuses as requested in our AAC budget," he told Graphic Sports.

He added, "On the issue of cheques issued in cedis instead of foreign currency, for the foreign-based athletes, it is really an inconvenience, and we will continue to engage the ministry to get it resolved so it does not escalate to a point where athletes are reluctant to compete for Ghana.

Most of our talented athletes are based abroad. We must manage their welfare to ensure mutual benefit—honours for the state and fair rewards for the athletes."

The Ghanaian team for the games includes eight athletes, featuring the 4x100m relay team in track and field, Joselle Mensah and Harry Stacey in swimming, and Rose Yeboah in the high jump event.

They will continue preparations in Paris until July 22, when they will leave for the games village. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will be held from Friday, July 26, 2024, to Sunday, August 11, 2024.