A forensic audit into Ghana’s hosting of the African Games has revealed financial irregularities exceeding $40 million, according to a report commissioned by former President John Dramani Mahama.
The audit, which was carried out under Mahama’s directive, scrutinised expenditures related to the continental multi-sport event. Findings indicate widespread breaches of procurement protocols, undocumented payments, and significant cost overruns across several sectors, including athletics, boxing, football, and other sports.
While the full report is yet to be made public, sources close to the audit team confirmed that millions of dollars could not be traced to any verifiable goods or services. In some instances, contracts were awarded without competitive tendering, and invoices were paid to entities with no clear role in the Games’ organisation.
The irregularities span venue refurbishments, athlete accommodation, transportation, and equipment purchases. Tennis facilities, in particular, recorded unexplained cost escalations, according to preliminary audit highlights.
Mahama, who has been vocal about accountability in sports administration, is expected to present the complete findings to the relevant state agencies for further action. Calls for criminal investigations into some of the transactions are already emerging from civil society groups monitoring the audit process.
Officials who managed the African Games secretariat have not yet responded to the allegations. However, some have previously defended the spending as necessary to meet urgent deadlines and continental standards.
The government has not officially commented on the audit report, but the Ministry of Youth and Sports is understood to be reviewing its contents.
This development adds to growing public scrutiny over Ghana’s handling of major sporting events, with many demanding that those found culpable be held accountable.
