The Accra Sports Stadium found itself in a precarious position this Monday evening as the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) made the tough decision to disconnect power due to an outstanding debt of GH¢400,000.
This unfortunate development occurred just days before a pivotal Paris 2024 Olympic football qualifier match between Zambia’s women’s national team and Ghana’s Black Queens was slated to take place.
Regrettably, this isn’t the first instance where the stadium has faced such a setback. Back in March 2022, the National Task Force of ECG took similar action when the stadium’s debt reached a staggering GH¢508,000.
This recurring issue underscores the financial challenges plaguing not just the Accra Sports Stadium but also other facilities under the management of the National Sports Authority (NSA).
Adding to the urgency of resolving this matter is the fact that the Accra Sports Stadium is set to host a multitude of high-profile events in the coming months. Beyond the upcoming Olympic qualifier, the stadium is designated to host all men’s football matches during the 2023 African Games, commencing on March 8th.
Additionally, it is also scheduled to accommodate sambo and wrestling events.
Unfortunately, the Accra Sports Stadium isn’t the only venue grappling with utility bill arrears. In April 2023, the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) disconnected power to the Aliu Mahama Stadium in Tamale due to an outstanding debt of GH¢466,000.
As stakeholders scramble to address these financial challenges, the looming question remains: How will these facilities ensure uninterrupted operations to successfully host these significant sporting events amidst such daunting fiscal hurdles?
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