Juliana Addo-Yobo, the director responsible for volunteers at the 13th African Games, has assured that the Ministry of Sports is actively working to resolve the issue of unpaid volunteers for the event.
Volunteers expressed agitation on Tuesday over the alleged failure of authorities to fulfill promises of compensation made before the competition.
They claim they were assured of GH¢500 for transportation and GH¢2,000 as an appreciation allowance.
In response to these concerns, Addo-Yobo reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to addressing the matter promptly. She emphasised the importance of volunteerism while acknowledging the volunteers’ financial burdens.
“We oriented the volunteers on what to expect and the concept of volunteerism,” Addo-Yobo stated. “While volunteerism is typically unpaid, we aimed to provide some assistance, particularly for transportation.”
Post-Africa Games matters: We never promised any figure as an allowance. We said we'd give them money for transport. – Juliana Addoyoba Chairperson of Volunteers for African Games#GhanaTonight pic.twitter.com/7CAW54tfZL
— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) March 27, 2024
She explained that efforts were made to gather funds for the volunteers but were unsuccessful by the time the event concluded on March 23, 2024.
Despite reassurances, some volunteers remain disheartened with many expressing frustration over the situation, highlighting the invaluable services rendered and the financial strain they now face.
The Ministry’s commitment to resolving the issue underscores the importance of addressing concerns raised by volunteers, who played a crucial role in the success of the 13th African Games.
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While the volunteers agreed to undertake the voluntary job, they were informed of the necessity to fully commit themselves without a formal financial arrangement. They were guaranteed provisions such as meals and accommodation for the duration of the competition. Nonetheless, promises of additional cash incentives seem to have been made to the volunteers as well which have not been honoured by the authorities.