Ghana marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by hosting its 2024 National Para Powerlifting Competition in Accra.

The event, organised by the Ghana Para-Powerlifting Association in collaboration with the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana (NPC-Ghana), brought together more than 50 para-powerlifters from five regions: Kumasi, Accra, Tamale, Cape Coast, and Sunyani.

According to Ignatius Elletey, a member of the Ghana Para-Powerlifting Association, the event aimed to identify and rank athletes for the 2025 season and future competitions while building a comprehensive database of para-powerlifters in the country.

“Today’s programme is very important.

Over the years, we’ve limited the number of athletes selected for international events, and this has been a challenge.

Therefore, the Association thought it was high time we organised such an event to give opportunities to all the athletes at our disposal so they can prove themselves for selection in international competitions,” he said.

Elletey also urged corporate bodies to support the Association with funding to help provide the athletes with the best training ahead of the 2028 Paralympic Games.

“In terms of support, we want to use this opportunity to appeal to corporate Ghana and all Ghanaians. Disability sports give a future and life to persons with disabilities.

It is the only industry that operates inclusively.

Therefore, we want corporate Ghana to come on board and sponsor. There are many events next year, and it all boils down to funding.

This is also a journey towards the 2028 Paralympic Games in the USA.

We can only compete at the highest level when we have sponsors and support from all industry players,” he added.

This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities is being celebrated under the theme: "Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.

" The para-powerlifting competition formed part of Ghana’s activities to mark the day.