University of Ghana stadium to host 2018 Women’s Afcon

The yet-to-be-completed University of Ghana (UG) Sports stadium has been earmarked as one of two venues when Ghana hosts the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2018, starrsportsgh.com understands.

Ghana’s budget statement for 2017 released earlier this month highlighted the completion of the stadium not only because it was part of the current government’s manifesto promise but also because the venue would be used to host group games in the 13th edition of the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations which will be hosted by the country, sources have indicated.

The 12,000-seater multi-purpose stadium has not seen completion since construction began in 2003.

Construction works was said to be 80 percent complete when the last work on the $17million project was tackled.

A synthetic tartan track, water-proof pitch and the stands have been long completed with work on the changing rooms, offices, VIP lounge, seats, specialized gadgets, digital and lighting systems and the erection of a ribbon score board system left undone due to issues with funds. The stadium, when completed, will also have a 14-station TV broadcasting system.

Ghanaian-based Civil and Engineering contractors, Consar Limited was handling the construction project and has been re-engaged to complete it by government, it is understood.

The UG stadium will have to be completed before December 2017 for it to serve as a venue for the eight-team African Women’s flagship tournament later in 2018.