Minister for Youth and Sports, Mahama Ayariga, has confirmed that Ghana will bid for the hosting rights to AFCON 2017 .
The minister made the announcement on social networking site Twitter on Tuesday afternoon.
I am happy to announce that Ghana will bid to host the 2017 African Cup of Nations. #GHForAFCON2017 @garyalsmith @akwasisarpong @OtiAdjei
— Mahama Ayariga (@AyarigaM) August 26, 2014
Libya withdrew as hosts of the tournament last Saturday, citing security concerns as the reason for their decision.
“Ghana has the infrastructure and we are looking to add to it. We have the stadium in Cape Coast and are going to construct a few more in other regions.
“Our people love football and are hospitable. The transportation network within Ghana both by road and air is also in good shape,” the minister revealed to Allsports.
With an ailing economy that is yet to recover,the minister was quick to dispel fears of an inadequate budget to stage the event.
“I have held consultations with the organisers of the event in 2008, that was led by Rex Danquah and they explained the cost was high because the country had to build new stadia.
“With our new bid we basically have to improve the existing sub structures.
“You also know that that CAF will provide some facility to help with the staging of the event whilst corporate sponsors and media rights will also go a long way to help us stage a great tournament if our bid is accepted.”
Morrocco will host the next edition of the AFCON in 2015.
More to follow.