Ghana's national Para Powerlifting team is on its way to Algeria. They will compete in the African Open Para Powerlifting Championships 2026. This event is crucial for their path to the 2028 Summer Paralympics. The championship takes place from May 21st to 24th, 2026. It is being held in Oran, Algeria, at the Miloud Hadefi Olympic Complex.
The participation of the Ghanaian contingent is entirely funded by Mr. Samson Deen. He is the President of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana (NPC Ghana). This sponsorship reflects his dedication to making Ghana a leader in para sports across Africa. The team includes para powerlifters Tahiru Haruna, Isaac Obeng, and Isaac Nii Ayitey Tagoe. Tagoe will be making his debut in a World Para Powerlifting sanctioned event.
Ghana's para sports profile has been rising since 2025. The country's athletes have won medals consistently. This achievement follows Ghana's strong second-place finish at the West Africa Para Games. Nigeria secured the top spot in that competition. Mr. Deen previously pledged to support dedicated athletes aiming for medals.
"African athletes must end tourism and focus on mounting the podium anytime they travel for competitions," Mr. Deen stated. He also urged African governments to invest more in para sports. "Zero financial support got us medals," he added. "Imagine what proper investment in para sports can do for Africa on the world stage."
The Algerian championship is more than just gaining qualification points. It aims to build a winning spirit within the team. It also exposes athletes to high-level competition. This prepares them for the larger goal of the 2028 Summer Paralympics. Ghana has already qualified five athletes for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. These athletes compete in Para Swimming, Para Athletics, and Para Powerlifting. The country hopes for its first-ever Commonwealth Games medal in para sports.
Mr. Deen has also committed to providing international training camps. These camps will take place in France and Azerbaijan. This is part of the preparation for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The training will enhance athletes' technical skills, discipline, and confidence. The NPC Ghana is committed to creating more global opportunities for its athletes.
The delegation also features Prince Nyarko as Head of Delegation. Coach George Ohene-Adu and Medical Personnel Tilly Naa Adei Lutterodt are also part of the team. Guest athlete Oghenenyerhovwo Glory Unuefewa is joining for classification purposes. The rise in para sports funding by individuals like Mr. Deen is a positive financial development in the sector. Such private investment is vital for athletes aiming for international success.