13th African Games set to kick off in spectacular opening ceremony Friday

Accra, Ghana – The stage is set for an unforgettable start to the 13th African Games as anticipation reaches fever pitch for a spectacular opening ceremony today, March 8, 2024. 

With the University of Ghana Stadium poised to transform into a hub of cultural celebration and sporting excellence, excitement is palpable among attendees and viewers worldwide.

From the precision of military displays to the rhythm and energy of top Ghanaian and foreign artists, every moment is primed to captivate and inspire.

Commencing earlier this week with various competitions including table tennis, karate-do, cricket, football and badminton at the Accra International Conference Centre and other venues, the official opening ceremony, slated for 3 p.m., marks the beginning of Africa’s biggest sporting extravaganza featuring the continent’s elite athletes competing for glory in 39 different disciplines, with Accra positioned at the forefront of the sporting world.

Themed, “Experience the African Dream,” the ceremony aims to encapsulate the collective dreams and aspirations of Ghanaians, with an anticipated crowd of 10,000 and millions more tuning in globally.

Dignitaries

The proceedings will be graced by esteemed personalities including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo; the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat; and the Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development (HHS) at the African Union Commission, Ambassador Minata SAMATE CESSOUMA, among others.

 Ceremony

The ceremony promises a plethora of highlights, from the symbolic handover of the AU flag to Ghana to traditional performances by the National Dance Ensemble, showcasing Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.

From the symbolic handing over ceremony of the AU flag to the government of Ghana to the vibrant traditional performances and cultural displays by the National Dance Ensemble, each moment will be infused with Ghana’s cultural heritage and identity.

 A major highlight of the ceremony will be the parade of nations, where participating athletes will proudly represent their countries in attires from their respective countries, embodying the spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

The ceremonial lighting of the African Games torch will ignite the spirit of determination among athletes, setting the stage for an extraordinary display of talent and resilience.

Amidst the festivities, distinguished speakers including President Akufo-Addo, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and other high-level dignitaries will deliver welcome speeches underscoring the significance of the African Games in promoting unity, solidarity and progress across the continent.

As the sun sets over Accra, the evening will culminate in a breathtaking display of fireworks, accompanied by musical performances by renowned Ghanaian musicians such as highlife veterans Pat Thomas and Ebo Taylor, and contemporary stars Shatta Wale and King Promise, as well as South African singer and dancer Kamo Mphela. Their sounds will echo through the stadium, resonating with the collective spirit of Pan-African celebration and triumph.

 With over 3,000 athletes competing in 29 sports disciplines, including qualifiers for the Paris Olympics in 2024, this edition of the games promises to be an unforgettable showcase of Ghanaian excellence and resilience.

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Source: Graphiconline

Samuel Ansong

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