Mahama orders forensic audit into organization of 13th African games

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Auditor-General to undertake a full-scale forensic audit into the organisation and management of the 13th All-African Games.

This follows findings submitted by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).

A statement issued by the Office of the President said the move reflects the government’s continued commitment to accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of public resources.

The President’s directive mandates the Auditor-General to conduct a wide-ranging review of both financial and operational activities related to the Games, including procurement, expenditure, infrastructure, and post-event management.

The audit is expected to examine three critical areas: procurement and contracting processes, financial management and expenditure control, and infrastructure delivery. It will assess whether procedures complied with the Public Procurement Act (Act 663, as amended), review disbursement and sponsorship arrangements, and evaluate cost variations and value-for-money outcomes.

President Mahama has further instructed that the probe extend to the performance and coordination of all government agencies and committees involved in the planning and execution of the Games.

The Auditor-General has been given until the second week of December 2025 to present the audit report to the President.

The 13th African Games, branded Accra 2023, took place in Ghana from March 8 to 23, 2024. The event was widely commended for its display of sporting excellence and for projecting Ghana’s capability as a host nation. However, subsequent reports have raised concerns about procurement irregularities, cost escalations, and the post-event management of key facilities built for the Games.

The government maintains that the forensic audit will not only clarify these issues but also strengthen public accountability and improve the planning of future national and continental sporting events.