A forensic audit into Ghana's organization of the 13th African Games has directed former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif, and two other officials to repay GHS 579.1 million to the state.
This recommendation by the Auditor-General follows alleged financial irregularities linked to the event. The audit uncovered widespread cost inflation, unsupported payments, and questionable expenditure across multiple contracts related to the Games. The report also implicated former Chief Director William Kartey and former Local Organising Committee Chairman Kwaku Ofosu-Asare in the recovery recommendations.
This development adds to ongoing concerns about public financial management and accountability in Ghana. Large-scale government projects often face scrutiny over budgeting and execution, as seen in past audits of national events. The audit, commissioned by President John Dramani Mahama last year, underscores a continuing governmental effort to enhance transparency and combat corruption. Furthermore, the findings are likely to fuel public discussions about the efficiency of state spending and the oversight mechanisms in place for major national undertakings.
The Auditor-General's report, while not making criminal findings, specifically recommended that the three designated officials repay the funds. These funds were identified as unjustified expenditure and irregular payments. Additionally, the report mentioned Amin Alhassan in connection with a broadcast training contract, further expanding the scope of the irregularities.
The audit recommended the recovery of an estimated GHS 579.1 million, along with US$44.35 million and €629,070. These amounts are linked to overpricing, undelivered goods, unsupported claims, and changes to existing contracts. Several expenditure categories were flagged, including catering, accommodation, transport, equipment procurement, infrastructure, and administrative costs. For example, auditors questioned more than US$2.8 million in catering costs because of inadequate supporting documents.
Accommodation arrangements also faced scrutiny, with hotel rooms reportedly billed at rates significantly above market prices, inflating costs by an estimated US$840,000. Sports equipment procurement showed similar issues, with contracts for boxing, hockey, and triathlon disciplines exceeding benchmark prices. Transport and logistics contracts recorded over GHS 30 million in irregularities, stemming from vehicle hiring, branding, and rental-related payments.
The most significant financial concerns arose from engineering and construction contracts for venues like the Borteyman Sports Complex and University of Ghana facilities. Auditors identified inflated claims, unjustified contract variations, and changes outside the approved project scope, estimating irregular claims at nearly GHS 468 million. The report also noted payments for equipment that auditors said was either not delivered or lacked proper specifications, as well as spending unrelated to the Games.
The recommendations will intensify public and parliamentary scrutiny regarding the spending on Ghana's hosting of the continental sporting event. Expect increased calls for more rigorous financial oversight and stronger accountability measures for future national projects. Decision-makers in both government and oversight bodies will face pressure to demonstrate how they intend to implement these recommendations and prevent similar occurrences.