President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Auditor-General to immediately commence a comprehensive forensic investigation into all matters surrounding the organization of the 13th African Games, which took place in 2023.
The directive follows the submission of a confidential report by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to the Presidency, which reportedly highlighted several irregularities in the award of contracts, procurement processes, and infrastructure development associated with the continental sporting event.
According to sources at the Jubilee House, President Mahama expressed deep concern over some of the findings in the NIB report and has instructed that a full audit be conducted to ensure accountability and transparency.
“The President takes issues of public accountability very seriously. He has therefore directed the Auditor-General to carry out a detailed forensic audit covering all expenditures and contractual engagements related to the African Games,” a statement from the Presidency noted.
The investigation is expected to focus on the construction and rehabilitation of sporting facilities, procurement of equipment, award of event management contracts, and financial disbursements made before, during, and after the Games.
President Mahama has further instructed that the final report of the audit be submitted to his office by the second week of December 2025 for further action.
The 13th African Games, which Ghana hosted for the first time, were widely praised for their organization and infrastructure development. However, concerns have since emerged regarding cost overruns and possible procurement breaches, prompting the latest presidential directive.
The outcome of this investigation is expected to shed more light on how public funds were utilized in hosting one of Africa’s biggest sporting events and to ensure that those found culpable face the appropriate sanctions.
