The Ghana Paralympic Committee unveiled the Black Challenge squad at the ESP Hotel in Accra, setting their sights on the 2026 Amputee World Cup in San Juan de los Lagos, Mexico. The event drew attention from the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, and corporate sponsors, including Gold Fields, which pledged $500,000 to support the team.
Gold Fields’ $500,000 commitment includes $250,000 earmarked specifically for preparations leading up to the World Cup. Minister Adams urged Corporate Ghana to increase their backing of the team, saying the players deserve support well before any trophies are won. “These gentlemen deserve our attention and support. Their story should not be important only when they win something. Don’t wait for them to win a trophy, help them to win the trophies,” he told the gathering.
Adams also reassured the team of the government’s backing. “This government will continue working to ensure that your sacrifices are treated with the respect and recognition they deserve,” he said. He called on the team’s leaders to provide all necessary documentation so the government can follow up on pledges and promises, aiming for a smooth lead-up to the tournament and a joyful representation for Ghana.
The team’s president, Samson Deen, announced financial incentives for the players and officials under the National Paralympic Committee Ghana’s Target the Podium Initiative. Each player stands to receive GH₵10,000 and each official GH₵5,000 if the squad meets the initiative’s goals.
“I am pleased to announce that, through NPC Ghana’s Target the Podium Initiative, we shall make GH₵10,000 available to each player and GH₵5,000 to each official of the Black Challenge squad,” Deen said. He described the package as a morale booster to meet practical needs during preparations.
Deen also urged discipline from the players. “Respect your coaches and protect your fitness. Be punctual, support your teammates and use every training session purposefully,” he said. He reminded them that when they wear the national colours, they carry the hopes of the whole country. “You have already shown that you can compete under pressure. Let that experience strengthen your belief as you prepare for the World Cup.”
The Black Challenge squad will begin their final preparations with a training camp in Turkey next month. The 2026 Amputee World Cup is scheduled for 13 to 22 November in Mexico.
The unveiling and the financial backing come amid growing calls for better support of Ghana’s para-sport athletes. Minister Adams’ appeal to corporate Ghana signals a push to involve the private sector more actively in the development of para-sports ahead of international competitions.
With this level of support, the Black Challenge squad will head to Mexico with resources and recognition aimed at helping them focus on their performance. The government and sponsors appear determined to ensure the team’s journey is as well supported as the tournament itself.
According to Joy Online.
