Ghana have thanked their sponsors for their support before the Olympic Games ©GOC

The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) have posted a public message thanking their sponsors and supporters who aided the country’s efforts at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

A total of 16 athletes represented the African nation at the Games, representing their highest contingent since Athens 2004.

Despite failing to claim a first Olympic medal since Barcelona 1992, the Games were notable for the Ghanaian team as they made their debuts in swimming, women’s judo and men’s weightlifting.

The GOC have now opted to thank those who played a key role in ensuring "our young sportsmen and sportswomen were able to live out their dreams".

Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, the Minister of Youth and Sports, was particularly thanked for his efforts in supporting the team.

Ghana fielded their largest team since Athens 2004 in Rio ©Getty Images
Ghana fielded their largest team since Athens 2004 in Rio ©Getty Images

"It was his commitment to ensuring that the contingent got the support it needed that led him to initiate and sustain the conversations with the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), which ultimately led to the funding they extended," a GOC message read.

"Similarly, he successfully arranged for his team to directly pay per the bulk of the per-diems in Rio, for the 32-member contingent.

"Without the support of the sponsors and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Team Ghana’s participation at the Rio 2016 Olympics would not have been possible.

"For that, the GOC thanks you all again."

The Ghanaian team were also supported by several sponsorship deals in the build-up to the Games, including their headline sponsor African Tiger.

The GNPC provided free flight tickets while the Nyaho Medical Centre contributed free health screening.

Seven further sponsors also aided the team, providing either a financial donation to aid the delegation or helping to secure training kits and discounted accommodation.