Accra Sports Stadium faced a major setback as power was disconnected due to a GH¢400,000 debt owed to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), the country’s power distributor. The disconnection, which occurred on Monday evening, has raised concerns about the stadium’s readiness to host the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic football qualifier match between Zambia’s women’s national team and Ghana’s Black Queens this Friday.
This is not the first time the ECG has taken such action against the stadium. In March 2022, the National Task Force of ECG disconnected power supply to the stadium over a debt totaling GH¢508,000.00. The recurrence of such financial issues underscores the challenges faced by the management of the Accra Sports Stadium in meeting its financial obligations.
Similar incidents have occurred at other sports facilities under the management of the National Sports Authority (NSA). In April 2023, the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) disconnected power supply to the Aliu Mahama Stadium in Tamale due to an outstanding debt of GH¢466,000.
The timing of the power disconnection raises concerns about the stadium’s ability to fulfill its commitments as a venue for major sporting events. Apart from Friday’s crucial Olympic qualifier, the Accra Sports Stadium is scheduled to host all of the men’s football action at the 2023 African Games, set to begin on March 8. Additionally, the facility is slated to host events in sambo and wrestling.
Efforts are underway by stadium workers to rectify the situation and restore power ahead of the upcoming matches and events. However, the recurring financial challenges faced by sports facilities across the country highlight the need for sustainable solutions to ensure the smooth operation of these venues and the successful hosting of sporting events in Ghana.
