Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has confirmed that the department has started a probe following concerns raised by South African athletes over the living conditions at the 24th African Athletics Senior Championship in Ghana.
Participating athletes reportedly complained about conditions at the on-site accommodation, and McKenzie says the department has taken steps to address the situation.
This follows the circulation on social media of a video by South African athlete Aiden Smith, who raised concerns about the living conditions and catering provided at the accommodation venue.
Aiden Smith 🇿🇦 speaks out over poor athlete treatment at the ongoing African Championships in Ghana!
He was crowned African Shot Put Champion today.pic.twitter.com/2fGSsdA3TB
— Track & Field Gazette (@TrackGazette) May 12, 2026
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.
In a statement on Thursday, the minister says the department needs to understand what led to these concerns, and will continue to monitor the remaining days of competition.
“We look forward to welcoming our athletes home after the weekend,” added McKenzie
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) May 14, 2026
Following the circulation of the video, the Minister reportedly directed the department to arrange alternative hotel accommodation in Accra for Team South Africa, and the offer was communicated to the team.
The 24th African Athletics Senior Championships in Accra, Ghana, which takes place from 12 to 17 May 2026, will see South Africa field a 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.
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.
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