Ghana has officially pulled out of hosting the 2026 African Swimming Championships, citing governance challenges and a lack of institutional backing.

The decision was announced by the Ghana Swimming Association (GSA), bringing an end to plans for the continental event that was scheduled to take place in Accra from May 5 to 10, 2026.

Ghana had secured the hosting rights in Cairo in April 2025, raising expectations for a successful staging of the championship.

However, the GSA says preparations were severely affected by internal disputes and external pressures.

In a statement, the GSA revealed that ongoing electoral disagreements within the federation became entangled with preparations for the competition, significantly slowing progress.

It also accused the National Sports Authority (NSA) of attempting to impose guidelines that contradict the Association’s constitution.

According to the GSA, despite engaging stakeholders and making several concessions to resolve the impasse, key steps such as the formation of a Local Organising Committee were delayed.

PAH/JE