The President of the Africa Paralympic Committee (AfPC), Samson Deen, is calling for the creation of a continental Para Games, drawing inspiration from the success of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Deen believes that with strong institutions and commitment, para sports can achieve similar success and become a globally celebrated event.
He emphasized that every African child, regardless of ability, deserves to dream without limits and that para sports should receive equal recognition as a right, not just a trend or global expectation. The AfPC president made this call at the opening ceremony of the inaugural West Africa Para Games in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Deen highlighted six key benefits of strengthening para sports in Africa:
– National Unity: Fostering unity across the continent
– Youth Empowerment: Creating opportunities for young Africans with disabilities
– Sports Tourism: Boosting local economies through para sports events
– Job Creation: Generating employment opportunities in the para sports sector
– Global Moral Leadership: Positioning Africa as a leader in para sports
– Restoration of Africa’s Dignity: Showcasing African athletes’ abilities on the global stage
The inaugural West Africa Para Games, hosted by Nigeria, brings together elite para athletes from 13 countries, aiming to promote regional cooperation, unity, and disability inclusion.
