Ghana para powerlifting team heads to Russia ahead of LA28

Ghana’s preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games will take another step forward as the national Para Powerlifting team competes at the 2026 International Para Powerlifting Competition in Russia from August 8-9.

The five-member Ghanaian delegation comprises para-powerlifters Francis Kwaku, Patrick Nfodzo and Samuel Obeng, alongside Lead Coach Toulassi Frank and Assistant Coach Oheneadu George.

Their participation forms part of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana’s (NPC Ghana) ambitious “Target the Podium” initiative, spearheaded by NPC Ghana President Samson Deen. The programme seeks to expose promising para-athletes to high-level international competition as part of Ghana’s preparations for LA28.

The competition will provide the Ghanaian athletes with an opportunity to test themselves against international opposition, gain valuable competitive experience and identify areas for technical improvement. The delegation is expected to return to Ghana on August 10.

The Russia assignment is another component of NPC Ghana’s long-term strategy to transform promising athletes into genuine Paralympic medal contenders through sustained international exposure, technical development and competitive experience.

In a message to the athletes delivered through their coaching team, President Samson Deen emphasised the importance of every international competition in Ghana’s preparations for Los Angeles.

“Our objective is to continue creating opportunities for our para-athletes to compete internationally, develop their confidence and gain the experience required to represent Ghana successfully on the world stage.

“Los Angeles 2028 remains an important target, and every quality international competition forms part of that development journey.”

For Kwaku, Nfodzo and Obeng, every lift in Russia represents an opportunity to measure their progress, sharpen their competitive edge and build the confidence required to compete at the highest level.

Their performance in Russia will provide another important benchmark on Ghana’s road to LA28 as the country continues its push to develop a new generation of Paralympic medal contenders.