The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for 2026 African Athletics Seniors Championships has assured government of their commitment to ensure the country organises the best-ever tract and field event in the continent.

The Committee, which was inaugurated by the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams on the eve of Christmas Day to oversee preparations for the 24th edition of the competition, scheduled to be held in Accra from May 12 to 17, 2026, said they will make the country proud.

Addressing the committee, the Minister described 2026 as a particularly demanding year for Ghana’s sports calendar, citing the FIFA World Cup, the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Youth Olympics in Senegal, World Relays in Gaborone, etc.

He stressed, however, that hosting the African Senior Athletics Championships comes with a major responsibility.

“We are privileged to have the honour of also being the host for the African Seniors Athletics Championship,” the Minister said.

"You have a responsibility to plan effectively for participation of athletes numbering more than a thousand. And to plan for such a number logistically is not going to be easy.”

The Minister also revealed that the championship is expected to attract high-profile figures from the global athletics community.

“I am being informed that the World Athletics President, Lord Sebastian Coe, will be here for the championship. So that means very great personalities. The attention of the world when it comes to athletics would seriously be here.”

Ghana will also be hosting the World Athletics and Confederation African Athletics joint conference in Accra.

Adams charged the LOC, chaired by Farihan Alhassan, Managing Director of Ghana Commercial Bank, to ensure the event is not only successful but also leaves a lasting impact on athletics development in Ghana.

Reflecting on his school days, the Minister noted the past popularity of athletics and urged the committee to use the championship to revive interest in the sport.

“Athletics attracted more numbers than football ever did. But maybe the only reason today football is attracting more numbers is because they have organised themselves much better… Athletics also have the opportunity to do the same.”

He further linked the championship to President John Dramani Mahama’s renewed focus on school sports, encouraging the LOC to see the event as a foundation for long-term growth.

“What you do with this championship can begin and not end. And open another door for Ghana’s athletic exploits.”

Responding on behalf of the committee, Bawah Fuseini, President of Ghana Athletics, gave a strong assurance of commitment and delivery.

“Honourable Minister, we are guaranteeing that we are not going to disgrace you. We are not going to disgrace Ghana. We are not going to disgrace the President,” Fuseini said.

"For the trust you have imposed on us, we are going to deliver and to make every Ghanaian proud.”

The LOC includes representatives from Ghana Athletics, the National Sports Authority, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, National Security and the private sector, as Ghana intensifies preparations for hosting one of Africa’s flagship athletics events.

The continental event will be hosted at the University of Ghana Stadium, Legon.