By Darroll Allan Tagoe
The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) has highlighted significant business opportunities linked to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Speaking at a business forum in Accra, the Deputy British High Commissioner to Ghana, Keith McMahon, said the Games, scheduled from July 23 to August 2, 2026, will go beyond sport to serve as a major platform for trade, investment and global business engagement.
He explained that major international competitions not only attract global attention but also create economic prospects by driving investment in infrastructure, youth development and sports technology.
Mr McMahon said this presents a valuable opportunity for Ghana, noting the country’s strong performance in boxing, athletics and para-sports on the Commonwealth stage.
He also highlighted growing Ghana-UK collaboration in sports, referencing the inaugural UK-Ghana Sports Business Forum held last November with support from the National Sports Authority and the Duke of Edinburgh. He said the engagement has laid a foundation for deeper cooperation in sports development, leadership and innovation.
Looking ahead, he said both countries can expand collaboration in sports infrastructure, job creation and entrepreneurship in areas such as apparel, wellness and digital media.
Head of Mission of CWEIC, Dr John Apea, also underscored the economic potential of the Games, noting that sectors including media, tourism, infrastructure, technology and logistics are expected to benefit.
“Glasgow 2026 is projected to generate over £100 million in direct investment and create more than 1,000 jobs,” he said.
He cited the success of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, which contributed more than £1 billion to the UK economy, and encouraged Ghanaian businesses to position themselves to take advantage of emerging opportunities.
Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, said the Commonwealth Games have evolved into a platform of significant global value.
He noted that Ghana has participated in the Games since 1954 and has won more than 50 medals.
According to him, beyond competition, the Games have also created opportunities in education and skills development through Commonwealth scholarships.
He said the government is shifting towards a more structured approach to sports development, with the establishment of the Ghana Sports Fund to support grassroots sports, athlete development and infrastructure.
Mr Adams stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in sports administration, adding that reducing corruption remains key to progress.
He also highlighted plans to strengthen grassroots and school sports by creating a coordinated national development pathway to identify and nurture talent early.
He said the 2026 Games will serve not only as a sporting event but also as a platform for partnerships in infrastructure, sports science, media, tourism and youth development between Ghana and the United Kingdom.
