Karim Okanla BBC Sport, Cotonou

Benin fans are eagerly waiting for the African Youth Championship

Benin has rubbished speculation that it may pull out of hosting next year's African Youth Championship.

The head of the country's organising committee for the under-20 competition, Colonel Sebastien Ametepe, said "Benin will be ready to host the tournament next January."

Colonel Ametepe told BBC Sport that they are determined to overcome financial and logistical hurdles and host the seven visiting nations as planned.

"There's no doubt about it. Africa can rest assured that the competition will take place here," Colonel Ametepe said.

Africa can rest assured that the competition will take place here Colonel Sebastien Ametepe

A two-man delegation from Caf visited Benin recently and expressed concern over the country's ability to deliver on time.

The initial budget for the competition was set at just under US$30m, but was later cut back to US$2.1m after government authorities said they could not afford such a huge sum of money.

Some of the money will go towards revamping facilities in the capital Cotonou.

But the refurbishment of the old Charles de Gaulle Stadium in Porto-Novo has been halted due to lack of funds.

Residents of the town are furious, alleging that this is a government ploy to deny their town the privilege of being a part of the action next year.

"Money problems are giving me sleepless nights," lamented Colonel Ametepe.