Ghana 2008 would be a showpiece for Africa - President Kufuor

Accra, Oct. 19, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor on Friday gave assurance of the country's commitment towards making the 26th Edition of the African Cup of Nations, Ghana 2008, a showpiece to confirm Africa's readiness to host the World Cup tournament.

The success of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) competition, he said, should prove to the rest of the world the rapidly improving organizational abilities, skills and vibrant spirit of Africa. It was on the basis of this that Ghana had invested so much in preparation for the competition, he said, when Mr Isa Hayatou, CAF President, led members of the continent's football controlling body and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to pay a courtesy call on him at the Castle, Osu.

They are in the country for the Ghana 2008 draw at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) later on Friday. President Kufuor pledged Ghana's support and resolve to ensure the good of the game and improve the image of Africa.

He said promoting football had contributed significantly to the social and economic development of the continent and lifted its image and this was a duty owed to Africa's youth.

He added that the fact that Africans were now appreciated through football was a credit to CAF.

Ms. Elizabeth Ohene, Minister of State, Ministry of Education, Science and Sports, described the facilities Ghana was providing for the tournament as "some of the best any African country has ever provided". CAF has carried out nine different inspections of the facilities and the last one was completed just two days ago.

Ms. Ohene said the Ministry was keeping a close look at the schedule and was confident that "we would be ready in time for the competition".

The CAF President praised President Kufuor for the "wonderful infrastructure" the country had put in place. Mr. Hayatou said they were grateful for this, adding that, Ghana 2008 was certainly going to be a great showcase of a successful tournament.