Felix Agbotsu, Executive Director of the Simon Agbotsu Foundation for the Young Disabled, has expressed outrage over the government’s apparent disinterest in supporting disability sports in Ghana. He argues that it is unjustifiable to neglect para athletes when their able-bodied counterparts receive ample support.
Agbotsu’s concerns follow reports of the poor treatment of Ghana’s national amputee football team, the Black Challenge, who recently won the African Amputee Football Cup of Nations in Egypt. This victory marked the team’s third African championship title, equaling the record for most titles won and securing their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, alongside six other African nations.
Despite this impressive feat, the team has faced a disheartening lack of support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ghana Football Association.
Coach Richard Obeng revealed that the team had to fund their own jerseys and rent training facilities, receiving no per diem or rewards for their achievements. He further disclosed that there was no official welcome at the airport upon their return, a stark contrast to the usual treatment afforded to other national teams.
“This is simply unacceptable,” Agbotsu stated during an interview with DisabilityNewsGH.com at the sidelines of his organization’s annual “LOVE AND LAUGHTER” feast and “YES, I CAN GAMES” event held at the Accra Sports Stadium on June 22nd.
“Our para athletes deserve recognition, support, and the same opportunities as their able-bodied counterparts. Their achievements are a testament to their dedication, talent, and resilience”, he said.
The annual event, now in its sixth year, brought together individuals with disabilities from the Greater Accra and Central Regions to compete in Wheelchair Racing, Wheelchair Basketball, Wheelchair Tennis, Skate Soccer, Go Ball, Table Tennis, Wheelchair Boxing, and Para Cycling. Winners received medals, trophies, and cash prizes.
The event serves as a socialisation platform for individuals with disabilities who are often excluded from social gatherings and sporting activities in their communities. It also provides a valuable opportunity to identify and nurture sporting talents for the national para-Olympic teams.
The Simon Agbotsu Foundation, through this event, has also supported numerous needy students with disabilities to pursue education from primary to tertiary levels.
Agbotsu issued a fervent call to action for the government, corporate institutions, and philanthropists to prioritize disability sports and improve the lives of people with disabilities in Ghana. “It is time to invest in our para athletes and create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential,” he concluded.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com
