In a recent revelation by Mustapha Ussif, the Minister for Youth and Sports in Ghana, the country’s expenditure during the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) has come under scrutiny. With an estimated budget of $8,506,450.00 for both pre-tournament and tournament phases, the Ministry of Finance released $5,071,840.36.
The allocated funds were designated for various essentials such as per diems, flight arrangements, medicals, equipment, logistics, and hospitality. Of the released amount, $3,070,067.81 was spent on these aspects, leaving a surplus of $2,001,772.55 after Ghana’s exit from the tournament.
Interestingly, the Sports Ministry had also mobilized an additional $400,000 to enhance the team’s preparations, reflecting the commitment to providing optimal support.
This surplus and the supplementary funds showcase the ministry’s prudent financial management, underscoring its dedication to ensuring a well-equipped and prepared team for the prestigious football event.
As discussions surrounding the fiscal aspects of Ghana’s AFCON 2023 participation unfold, questions may arise about the potential reallocation of surplus funds and the broader implications for future sports investments in the country.
The transparency in disclosing the financial details adds a layer of accountability to the sports administration, fostering a dialogue about resource allocation and efficient financial stewardship in the realm of international sports competitions.