Ghana to reject CAF's request to host AFCON 2015

Ghana may decline the request from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to consider hosting the 2015 edition of the African Cup of Nations.

This follows concerns raised by health experts over the possibility of an outbreak of the lethal Ebola disease which has snuffed the life out of over 4,500 persons across West Africa since the beginning of the year.

CAF asked Ghana and South Africa to be on the stand-by should Morocco officially write to the continental football governing body indicating its decision not to host the tournament next year. South Africa has also rejected the offer reportedly due to budgetary constraints.

Morocco had suggested the postponement of the event from January until the outbreak of the disease is brought under control, but CAF insists the event must be held in January 2015. 

Speaking on the Super Morning Show on Joy FM, Tuesday, October 21, 2014 Minister for Youth and Sports Mahama Ayariga said although Ghana is logistically prepared to stage the competition, the concerns expressed by the Ghana Health Service and other stakeholders are being considered seriously.

“Logistically and infrastructure-wise, yes…but our health people have the final say,” Mr. Ayariga stated.

According to him, “The key issue is the health consideration and I agree with the health people”.

“Ultimately, if they (CAF) gets back to us with a definite offer…you can get a sense of where it is going,” he hinted in an interview with host, Kojo Yankson.

“…We have the capacity except that because of the health considerations we too are concerned,” the Minister added.

President John Mahama who is out of the country on a working visit to the UK and Denmark is expected to officially state Ghana's position to the request from CAF when he returns. Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Jerry Tsatro Mordy | [email protected]