Ghana is set to make a splash on the international stage as two of its finest para swimmers arrive in Australia for the 2026 World Series.
Promise Atsu and Bryan Baffour departed Accra on Tuesday evening, bound for the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre.
Their participation marks a historic milestone: the first time Ghana has been represented at a major international para swimming competition.
The duo are scheduled to compete between 20 and February 22, with their sights set on a much larger prize.
This event serves as a vital qualifying pathway for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, offering these young athletes a chance to secure their spots on the world stage.
Both Atsu and Baffour face a rigorous schedule in Queensland. Before hitting the water, they must undergo formal international classification to determine their competitive categories.
Once cleared, they will represent Ghana in the 50m Freestyle, the 50m Breaststroke, and the 100m Breaststroke.
This journey is the culmination of a rapid transformation within the Para Swimming Association, led by Farida Iddriss since her appointment as President in May 2025.
Understood to be funded by the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), the trip represents a significant investment in the country’s inclusive sporting future.
In a statement, the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) praised the leadership that made the trip possible:
“Madam Farida Idriss, President of the Ghana Para Swimming Association, played a critical role in ensuring that these young para swimmers secured this life-changing opportunity.”
“Her leadership, advocacy, and determination have opened new doors for para swimming development in Ghana.”
As the Gold Coast prepares to host elite talent from across the globe, all eyes in Accra will be on the leaderboard.
The NPC added that the nation “proudly stands behind” the pair, hoping their performance will inspire a new generation of para athletes across West Africa.
Success this weekend wouldn’t just mean medals or qualifying times; it would signal Ghana’s arrival as a serious contender in the global para swimming community.
Source:Ekow Segu
