The government has committed to making Ghana’s Black Star Marathon the best marathon in Africa through enhanced investment and strategic partnerships with sponsors.

President John Dramani Mahama made this announcement at the Black Star Square on Saturday while flagging off competitors in the ABSA Black Star Marathon, which featured athletes from 28 different nations.

“Government is going to work with ABSA to make this the best marathon in Africa,” President Mahama declared, outlining the government’s continental ambitions for the annual event.

The government plans to achieve this goal by integrating the marathon into Ghana’s official tourism calendar and collaborating with ABSA and other sponsors to increase prize money and overall event quality.

“For those of you who run competitively, I wish to assure you that with governments coming in and working with ABSA and all the sponsors, next year you must be back here. The prize money is going to be very good,” the President told participants.

This commitment positions Ghana to compete directly with established marathons across the continent, including major events in Kenya, South Africa, and Ethiopia that have traditionally dominated African running circuits.

The government’s strategy centers on incorporating the event into what officials have branded the “Black Star Experience,” linking sports tourism with Ghana’s broader tourism initiatives.

“The Black Star Marathon has become a part of Ghana’s tourism experience and we’ve labelled it the Black Star Experience,” President Mahama explained, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to the project.

The enhanced government backing represents increased investment in sports excellence, with plans to increase prize money across different categories and attract top international athletes to Ghana.

The participation of athletes from 28 nations already demonstrates the event’s growing continental appeal, providing a foundation for Ghana’s ambitions to establish itself as Africa’s leading marathon destination.

He emphasised the strategic importance of government involvement, stating: “I’m lending my presence to it today to show how important that this project is for us.”

The President’s commitment indicates sustained government support for the marathon as part of Ghana’s broader strategy to become a premier sports tourism destination in Africa.

With government backing now secured, the Black Star Marathon is positioned to challenge other major African running events for international recognition and elite athletic participation.

Richard Aniagyei, ISD