Accra, Ghana — The Ghanaian amputee football team, known as the Black Challenge, recently achieved a remarkable victory by winning back-to-back titles at the African Amputee Football Cup of Nations (AAFCON) after defeating Morocco 2-1 last month.
However, what should have been a moment of national celebration has been overshadowed by political controversy and bureaucratic wrangling.
The team’s joy was quickly tempered when Ghana’s Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, demanded a detailed accounting of the funds they received from various Ghanaian benefactors and corporations.
According to the team’s coach, Richard Obeng, the money had already been distributed among the team members, sparking further tension.
Adding to the controversy, the Sports Minister questioned the team’s decision to present the AFCON trophy to former President John Dramani Mahama before showing it to the sitting President, Nana Akuffo Addo.
This move was seen by some as politically charged, further marring the team’s victory.
Coach Obeng explained that their request to present the trophy to the Sports Minister on June 3rd or another suitable date went unanswered until after their visit to the ex-President.
“We were only called after we visited Ex-President Mahama. Prior to that, we had made a request to present the trophy to the Minister on the 3rd of June or any date that might be appropriate for the Minister. But we didn’t get any response. We only got his attention after we visited the Ex-President,” Obeng stated.
Upon their return from Egypt, where the tournament was held, the team felt neglected by both the National Sports Authority (NSA) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The lack of acknowledgment and support from these bodies has been a significant point of contention.
The Black Challenge’s captain expressed deep dissatisfaction with the treatment they have received, highlighting a broader issue of neglect towards disabled athletes in Ghana.
“Every cycle in Ghana disabled are not considered. I’m telling the honest truth, we feel discriminated and it’s about time they put a stop to it,” he said.
“Anybody can be disabled at any point in time. If I’m in this situation and you’re treating me this way, if you also unfortunately join the train, how would you expect to be treated?”
This sentiment is echoed by many who see the team’s struggles as indicative of systemic issues within Ghanaian sports administration. The captain’s plea for inclusiveness and tangible support rather than empty promises resonates with a history of challenges faced by the team.
Years ago, the Black Challenge were attacked while traveling by road to a match in Nigeria due to lack of government support for air travel, underscoring the risks and hardships they endure.
The political wrangling and bureaucratic neglect following their historic win have cast a shadow over what should have been a moment of unity and national pride.
As the Black Challenge call for more substantial support and recognition, their situation serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater inclusivity and respect for all athletes, regardless of their physical abilities.
The saga continues to unfold, with many hoping that the authorities will heed the team’s call for change and that future victories will be celebrated without the taint of political and bureaucratic disputes.
