Minister McKenzie Acts swiftly as SA Athletes raise concerns at African Athletics Championships in ACCRA
Following the circulation of a video on social media by South African shot put athlete Aiden Smith, expressing concerns about conditions at the on-site athlete accommodation at the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Mr Gayton McKenzie took immediate steps to investigate and address the situation.
Smith has been competing at the 24th African Athletics Senior Championships in Accra, Ghana (12–17 May 2026), where South Africa has fielded a competitive team of 34 athletes. The tournament brings together more than 1,500 athletes and officials from across the continent. Ghana is hosting the event for the first time.
Upon seeing the video and subsequent media reports, Minister McKenzie immediately directed the Department to arrange alternative hotel accommodation in Accra for Team South Africa, and the offer was communicated to the team.
The athletes have since indicated that their immediate concerns have been addressed, and they have elected to remain at the Championships venue accommodation for the remainder of the competition. It is also noted that the 48 countries participating in the African Senior Athletics Championships are residing at the University of Accra in Ghana, where the 2023 African Games were held.
Minister McKenzie has requested a full report from Athletics South Africa on the conditions experienced by the delegation and the circumstances that gave rise to the complaints.
“The welfare of our athletes is non-negotiable. We need to understand what led to these concerns, and our Department will continue to monitor the remaining days of competition. We look forward to welcoming our athletes home after the weekend,” said the Minister.
The Minister congratulates Aiden Smith on his gold medal in the shot put and wishes the full South African team continued success in Accra.
For media enquiries:
Ms. Stacey-Lee Khojane, Spokesperson: Office of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture │Email: StaceyK@dsac.gov.za │ Cell: +27 77 608 7579
Ms Zimasa Velaphi, Head of Communication and Marketing: Department of Sport, Arts and Culture │Email: ZimasaV@dsac.gov.za │ Cell: +27 72 172 8925
ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE
