The Ghana Paralympic Committee unveiled the Black Challenge squad for the 2026 Amputee World Cup in San Juan de los Lagos, Mexico, at an event held at the ESP Hotel in Accra. The announcement came with a $500,000 pledge from Gold Fields to support the team’s preparations and campaign. Half of this funding, $250,000, is set aside specifically for the World Cup preparations.
Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams spoke at the event, urging Corporate Ghana to increase support for the squad. “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. We must start with the preparation, the difficult moment and the journey itself,” he said.
Mr Adams also reassured the team that the government would continue to provide the necessary backing for their campaign in Mexico. He added that the government had asked team leaders to submit all relevant documentation to follow up on verbal pledges and promises. This, he said, was to ensure the players can focus on their preparations with peace of mind.
Samson Deen, president of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana, announced financial incentives for the players and officials through the NPC Ghana Target the Podium Initiative. Each player will receive GH₵10,000, and each official will get GH₵5,000, provided the team meets the initiative’s targets. Mr Deen said the money was meant to boost morale and aid players’ practical needs during training.
He reminded the players of the discipline required ahead of the competition. “Respect your coaches and protect your fitness. Be punctual, support your teammates and use every training session purposefully,” he said. “When you wear the national colours, you represent people from every part of Ghana. Carry that responsibility with confidence.”
The Black Challenge team will start their final preparations with a training camp in Turkey next month. The 2026 Amputee World Cup is scheduled to take place from 13 to 22 November in Mexico.
The ceremony drew several dignitaries, with the focus on giving the players visibility and encouragement as they prepare to represent Ghana internationally. The funding from Gold Fields and the government’s financial packages signal a growing interest in supporting athletes with disabilities ahead of the global tournament.
According to 3News.
