2026 Commonwealth Games: Three Ghanaian Para Athletes Depart for Dubai Qualification

Introduction

Ghana’s National Paralympic Committee (NPC-Ghana) has taken a significant step toward the 2026 Commonwealth Games by sending three talented para athletes to compete in the Dubai World Para Athletics Grand Prix. This strategic move represents Ghana’s commitment to expanding its presence in para sports on the international stage, with the Dubai competition serving as the final direct qualification opportunity for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.

Key Points

Background

The National Paralympic Committee of Ghana, working in partnership with the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), has strategically selected three para athletes to represent the nation at the prestigious Dubai World Para Athletics Grand Prix. This competition serves as a critical qualifying event for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, which will be held in Glasgow, Scotland.

The delegation includes two experienced para athletes and one promising newcomer. Botsyo Nkegbe, classified as T54, brings valuable experience to the team. Zinabu Issah, competing in the F57 category for women, specializes in throwing events. The most notable member of the team is 17-year-old Hayford Addai, a high school student making his international debut.

Coach Emmanuel Anum Sowah, who is traveling with the athletes, represents the technical expertise backing this mission. His presence ensures that the athletes receive proper guidance and support throughout the competition and classification process.

Analysis

The decision to send these specific athletes to Dubai reflects careful strategic planning by NPC-Ghana. Each athlete brings unique strengths to the team:

Botsyo Nkegbe’s T54 classification indicates he competes in wheelchair racing events. His participation in multiple distance events (100m, 800m, and 1500m) demonstrates his versatility and endurance capabilities. As an experienced athlete, Nkegbe serves as a mentor figure for the younger team members.

Zinabu Issah’s F57 classification places her in the seated throws category, where athletes have limited or no leg function but good to full trunk control. Her participation in both shot put and discus throw events showcases her throwing abilities and provides Ghana with representation in field events.

Hayford Addai represents the future of Ghanaian para athletics. As a T47 classified athlete (arm impairment), he competes in running and jumping events. His classification on February 6, 2026, marks a crucial milestone in his athletic career. The fact that he has already competed against non-disabled athletes in the Ashanti Regional Interschools Athletics Competition speaks volumes about his talent and determination.

The timing of this competition is particularly significant, as it represents the final direct qualification opportunity for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. This creates additional pressure but also motivation for the athletes to perform at their best.

Practical Advice

For aspiring para athletes in Ghana and across Africa, the journey of these three athletes offers several valuable lessons:

1. **Early Competition Experience**: Hayford Addai’s participation in competitions against non-disabled athletes demonstrates the importance of seeking competitive opportunities regardless of classification.

2. **Education Balance**: Addai’s status as a second-year student at Konongo Senior High School shows that athletic pursuits can be successfully balanced with academic commitments.

3. **Classification Process**: The classification process is a critical step for para athletes. Addai’s upcoming classification in Dubai highlights the importance of understanding and preparing for this requirement.

4. **Support Systems**: The collaboration between NPC-Ghana and GOC demonstrates how partnerships between different sporting organizations can create opportunities for athletes.

5. **Phased Approach**: The staged departure of the team, with Coach Sowah traveling earlier, shows the importance of logistical planning in international competition preparation.

FAQ

Conclusion

Ghana’s participation in the Dubai World Para Athletics Grand Prix represents a significant investment in the development of para sports in the country. By sending a mix of experienced and emerging talent, NPC-Ghana is not only pursuing immediate qualification goals but also building a sustainable pipeline for future international competitions. The success of Botsyo Nkegbe, Zinabu Issah, and particularly Hayford Addai could inspire a new generation of para athletes in Ghana and across the African continent. As the competition unfolds in Dubai, all eyes will be on these three athletes as they strive to secure their places at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.