Ghana could co-host future AFCON tournament with Côte d’Ivoire – President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that Ghana could explore the possibility of co-hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the future as the country intensifies efforts to upgrade its sports infrastructure.

The President disclosed during an inspection tour of the Ho Sports Stadium, where he outlined plans to develop at least five stadiums across the country to meet the standards required for hosting Confederation of African Football (CAF) competitions.

According to President Mahama, improving sporting facilities will be crucial in positioning Ghana to attract major international tournaments and potentially return as hosts of Africa’s biggest football competition.

“We want, over the next few years, to have at least five stadiums in this country that can host CAF competitions properly,” the President said.

Ghana last hosted the AFCON in 2008, successfully staging the tournament across four venues in Accra, Kumasi, Sekondi, and Tamale.

More than a decade later, President Mahama believes the country is ready to begin preparations towards bringing the continental showpiece back to Ghana.

“I’m sure that since 2008, after we hosted the AFCON, the time is almost near for us to host another AFCON,” he added.

The President further suggested that Ghana could consider a joint bid with neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire as part of efforts to restore West Africa’s prominence in hosting major football events.

“Maybe, in conjunction with our neighbours, we can come together, ourselves and Côte d’Ivoire, and then host,” he stated.

The proposed infrastructure drive forms part of Ghana’s broader ambition to modernise its sports facilities and create the capacity to host more CAF and international competitions in the coming years.