Ghana ace Andre Ayew insists the Black Stars must end a 30-year wait for an African title at the 2012 Cup of Nations which begins next month.

The 22-year-old has been in top form for the first half of the season for French giants Olympique Marseille.

The Black Stars are touted huge favourites to win the Nations Cup following the country’s startling run in the qualifiers.

The 2011 BBC African Footballer of the Year is confident about Ghana's chances.

"Many people believe the time to win the cup has come and I believe we have to have the confidence to finally grab it," Ayew said.

"It is not going to be easy because this is a tournament and anything at all can happen.

"But like I said, we're also determined to win it just like any other country. We have to work hard and hope that things go our way."

Ayew finished second runner-up at the 2011 CAF Player of the Year gala held in Accra last week.