Samson Deen secures NSA backing as Ghana gears up for landmark para sports festival

Mr. Samson Deen, President of the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC) and the Ghana Paralympic Committee, visited Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah. Mr. Ankrah is the newly appointed Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA).

The meeting took place at the NSA headquarters in Accra. It aimed to strengthen collaboration for disability sports in Ghana. They discussed two major events: the AfPC Elective Congress and the Open Para Sports and Classification Festival, both set for November 2025.

Mr. Deen highlighted Ghana’s important role in advancing para sports in Africa. He called for better infrastructure, athlete development, and access to international classification opportunities. “Africa’s para-athletes have talent but lack structural support,” he said.

He noted that hosting this festival would address long-standing inequalities. The festival will provide international classification for athletes aiming to compete globally. International classifiers are already engaged, with support from diplomatic missions like the Spanish Embassy.

Reflecting on his tenure since 2016, Mr. Deen mentioned a shift in Ghana’s para sports landscape. It has moved from being personality-led to system-driven now. “This movement is about building sustainable structures that empower everyone,” he stated.

He requested access to key venues such as Borteyman Sports Complex and University of Ghana Stadium. He also asked for logistical and technical support for a successful festival.

In response, NSA Director General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah assured full commitment from his agency. “This is a national priority,” he said, promising necessary facilities and personnel for success.

The partnership between AfPC and NSA represents progress in Ghana’s sports diplomacy. It signals a new chapter in empowering athletes with disabilities across Africa.