Glasgow: Veteran Ghanaian wheelchair racer Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe has urged the Government of Ghana to prioritise investment in para sports, arguing that sustained funding, not post-event rewards, is the key to winning medals on the international stage.
According to Ghana Web, Botsyo spoke after competing in the men's 1500m T54 final at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. He highlighted that countries consistently succeeding at major championships are those investing heavily in athlete preparation. "The medals are made by nations that invest. Nations that invest more win more medals," he stated.
The veteran para-athlete emphasised that while Ghana has the talent to compete with the world's best, it lacks the long-term investment necessary to translate potential into podium finishes. He advocated for substantial investment in athlete preparation, saying, "I'd prefer the government to invest $9,000 in my preparation and give me $1,000 if I win gold." He stressed that comprehensive support in terms of training, equipment, and pre-competition backing is more critical than large cash rewards post-victory.
Botsyo, who has represented Ghana for over two decades, revealed challenges such as purchasing his own specialised racing equipment, whereas athletes from leading nations receive modern equipment, elite coaching, sports science support, and regular international competition opportunities. He insisted that Ghana's medal ambitions should not solely depend on the efforts of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) Ghana.
Despite these challenges, Botsyo praised NPC Ghana's leadership for its dedication to supporting and motivating para-athletes, even with limited resources. He remarked that many Ghanaian para-athletes continue to compete, driven by the confidence and belief shown in them by the committee's leadership. "Every para-athlete in Ghana currently competes for the President of NPC Ghana because he is the one who believes in the para-athletes," he said.