By Rihana Adam
Accra, Sept. 28, GNA – The National Paralympic Committee (NPC) has officially unveiled the Black Challenge team ahead of the 2026 World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) World Cup in Mexico, with a renewed call for support from government, corporate institutions and the public.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Accra, Mr Samson Deen, President of the NPC, urged stakeholders to rally behind the national amputee football team as they prepare for the global competition.
He commended the players for their commitment and dedication to representing Ghana on the international stage and appealed for adequate logistical and financial support to aid their preparations.
Addressing the team, Mr Deen expressed confidence in their ability to achieve success in Mexico.
“Ghana is proud of you. In Tanzania in 2021, these players travelled to bring glory to the country,” he said.
Mr Deen noted that the Black Challenge secured qualification for the World Cup through their performance at the qualifying tournament in Egypt and are currently in camp preparing for the competition.
He appealed for the payment of players’ per diems and other support to enable them to focus fully on training.
“What I will do for them is not news to the players anymore, but what the Government will do for them is what Ghanaians need to know,” he added.
The NPC President also called on corporate Ghana and the public to support the team’s World Cup campaign.
“I know that you support us; just give us five per cent of what you do for the Black Stars,” he said.
Mr Kofi Iddie Adams, Minister for Sports and Recreation, praised the Black Challenge for their achievements and assured them of the Ministry’s support.
He recalled a recent meeting with members of the team to discuss their preparations and challenges ahead of the tournament, describing it as part of the Ministry’s responsibility to understand and address the needs of national teams.
“The team has served Ghana well. You won the African title in 2021, won the Para Games in 2023 and retained the African title in 2024 while qualifying Ghana for the World Cup. This is a remarkable achievement,” he said.
Mr Adams acknowledged the sacrifices made by the players, officials and their families, noting that many had trained and competed under difficult conditions with limited resources.
He said the recognition and support given to the team had not always reflected their contributions to Ghanaian sport.
“We must acknowledge the team,” he said, adding that President John Dramani Mahama’s administration was committed to building an inclusive sporting system in which every athlete was valued regardless of physical condition.
The Minister also appealed to corporate organisations to support the team’s preparations, while commending the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and Gold Fields Ghana for their assistance.
“These gentlemen deserve our recognition and support. We must stand with them through the preparation, the difficult moments and the journey,” he said.
Mr Adams urged the players to remain focused and approach the tournament with confidence.
“We see what you have done for Ghana. We appreciate your sacrifices and are proud of the honour you continue to bring to our country. Go to Mexico believing in yourselves and show Africa what you can do,” he said.
Mr Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), described support for the Black Challenge as a shared national responsibility and encouraged all Ghanaians to contribute to the team’s success.
He commended Mr Deen for his leadership and commitment to advancing para-sports in Ghana.
“Indeed, it is the Authority’s responsibility to support, but everyone can also support,” he said.
Mr Ankrah also called on the media to champion the team’s World Cup campaign and help mobilise nationwide backing.
“The team deserves honour and respect. Media, let us make it an agenda to support the team,” he said.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade