President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Ghana, Samson Deen, has reiterated the importance of investing in para sports, describing it as a powerful tool for transforming lives, promoting inclusion and enhancing Ghana’s reputation on the international sporting stage.
Speaking during the official unveiling of Team Ghana for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, Deen emphasized that support for para sports goes beyond competition and medals, serving as a catalyst for social and economic development.
“Every investment government spends in para sports creates opportunities, changes lives, and strengthens Ghana’s position on the global sporting stage,” Deen stated.
The NPC President made the remarks as Ghana unveiled a five-member para-athlete contingent that will represent the nation at the Commonwealth Games scheduled from July 28 to August 8, 2026.
The team comprises Zinabu Issah in Women’s F57 Para Athletics, three-time Paralympian Botsyo Nkegbe in Men’s T54 Wheelchair Racing, Hayford Addai in Men’s T47 Para Athletics, Haruna Tahiru in Men’s 100kg+ Para Powerlifting and Promise Aheto in Para Swimming.
According to Deen, the athletes have earned their places through hard work, dedication and outstanding performances, making them worthy ambassadors capable of competing with the world’s best.
He stressed that investing in para sports creates pathways for persons living with disabilities to excel, gain recognition and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Deen also called on government agencies, corporate institutions and development partners to increase support for para sports programmes across the country.
He noted that Ghana has made significant progress in recent years but requires sustained investment to compete consistently at the highest level.
Beyond funding, the NPC President appealed for a change in attitudes towards disability and para sports, urging Ghanaians to focus on ability rather than limitations.
“Disability is not inability. Our athletes do not seek sympathy; they seek opportunity. They seek inclusion and the chance to compete on equal terms with everyone else,” he said.
Deen further highlighted the role of the media in shaping perceptions and supporting the growth of sports in Ghana.
“We cannot build a successful sporting industry through negativity. We cannot attract sponsors and investors if we continuously focus on conflict and division,” he stated.
“We must celebrate our successes, support our athletes and tell stories that inspire the next generation.”
As preparations intensify for Glasgow 2026, the NPC President announced direct financial support for members of Team Ghana, revealing that each athlete will receive GH¢10,000 while every coach will receive GH¢5,000 to aid their preparations for the Games.
“We are supporting each para athlete with GH¢10,000 and each coach with GH¢5,000 ahead of the Commonwealth Games,” Deen disclosed.
He described the gesture as part of broader efforts to ensure the athletes are adequately motivated and equipped to perform at their best.
In a passionate appeal to the nation, Deen urged Ghanaians to unite behind the team as they prepare to carry the country’s hopes onto the international stage.
“When our athletes compete in Glasgow, they carry more than a flag. They carry the hopes, pride and aspirations of every Ghanaian. Let’s support them,” he said.
With the countdown to Glasgow 2026 underway, Team Ghana heads into the competition with renewed confidence and backing, determined to make history and bring glory to the nation.
For Samson Deen and the National Paralympic Committee, the mission is clear: invest in para sports, empower athletes, inspire the nation and strengthen Ghana’s standing in global sport.
