The 13th African Games concluded on Saturday, 23rd March, with a dazzling closing ceremony at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, marking the end of an unforgettable two weeks of sporting competition.
Over 5,000 athletes from across Africa descended upon Accra, making history as Ghana hosted the continental event for the first time.
The ceremony was a vibrant celebration of African unity and sporting excellence.
A breathtaking display of speeches, lights, music, and dance filled the stadium, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Ghana.
Ghana’s Youth and Sports Minister, Hon. Mustapha Ussif commented on the organization of the 2023 African Games.
Ghana has delivered the best African Games ever. We take pride in this and we say that this is the best in the history of the African Games.
Ghanaian superstars Stonebwoy and Wiyaala, led the musical charge, joined by other artists like Cameroon’s Stanley Enow, Innoss’B from DR Congo, and Emma’a from Gabon, ensuring the energy remained electric throughout the evening.
Team Egypt emerged victorious, topping the medal table with an impressive 189 medals at the end of the competition. Nigeria (120 medals) and South Africa (106 medals) followed closely behind, showcasing the depth of athletic talent across Africa.
Ghana’s 68 medals ensured that the country put up it’s best ever showing in the history of the African Games. The 68 medal-haul comprising of 19 gold medals was enough for a sixth place finish on the medal table.
But beyond the medals, the true spirit of the Games resided in the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by the athletes.
The closing ceremony also witnessed the passing on of the African Games flag from Hon. Mustapha Ussif, Ghana’s Sports Minister to the Sports Minister of Egypt.
This signifies that the mantle of hosting the next edition of the African Games has been passed on to Egypt.
As the flame is extinguished and the curtain falls on Accra 2023, the continent now eagerly awaits the next chapter in this incredible journey, as the baton is passed for the 14th African Games to be held in Cairo, Egypt in 2027.
Below are more images from the closing ceremony.
