The Ghana Olympic Committee boardroom on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, served as the venue for the official media launch of the 2025 African Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships.

Leading the event were top officials from the Ghana Weightlifting Federation (GWF), including President Jerry Ahmed Shaib, Board Member Mohammed Liman, Deputy General Secretary Gideon Sackey, Head of Communications Nana Kwame Dankwa, and other executives.

In his address, Mr. Ahmed Shaib emphasised Ghana’s honour and duty in hosting the continental championship.

“It is with pride and a deep sense of responsibility that I speak today,” he said.

“This launch marks a significant milestone as Accra prepares to host Africa’s finest young weightlifters.”

He noted that Ghana secured hosting rights in November 2024.

While initial preparations were slowed by national events and an election impasse, he assured that work behind the scenes remained consistent.

“Our team has been working tirelessly to ensure a world-class championship,” he affirmed.

The competition will be held at the Ga Mashie Hall within the Trust Sports Emporium.

Accommodation arrangements have been finalised with Accra City Hotel and Central Hotel to host visiting teams and officials.

Mr. Ahmed also highlighted a $15,000 contribution from the Weightlifting Federation of Africa (WFA), and noted that both the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Sports Authority have been formally notified of additional support.

Over 300 athletes and officials are expected, with preliminary entries received from more than 20 countries, including Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and host nation Ghana.

Final confirmations are due by July 17.

The event will also welcome dignitaries from African and international weightlifting bodies.

To ensure the successful hosting of the event, which is slated for August 15 to 22, Mr. Ahmed appealed for national and stakeholder support, estimating a budget of at least 1 million Ghana Cedis.

“With your partnership, we can exceed expectations and showcase Ghana’s excellence, hospitality, and resilience,” he concluded.