GLASGOW, Scotland — Ghanaian wheelchair racing legend Raphael Botsyo Nkegbe has challenged the Government of Ghana to rethink how it funds para-athletes, saying investment before competitions matters more than big victory bonuses after.
Speaking after competing in the Men’s 1500m T54 Final at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the veteran athlete made a simple but powerful proposal.
“I’d prefer Government invest $9,000 in my preparation and give me $1,000 if I win gold,” Botsyo said.
Botsyo’s comments captured his long-standing call for a new sports funding model in Ghana — one that prioritizes training, equipment and exposure over post-event rewards.
He stressed that para-athletes are not asking for special treatment, but for fair opportunities to compete at the highest level.
“We need quality training, access to specialised equipment, sports science support and proper international exposure,”_ he explained. _“That is what gives us a real chance.”
According to Botsyo, Ghana’s para-athletes have repeatedly proven they can compete with the world’s best when given the necessary resources.
Drawing on more than two decades of representing Ghana, Botsyo revealed he has often had to finance his own racing wheelchair and equipment.
“That is a situation that must change if Ghana is to consistently challenge for international medals,” he said.
He argued that substantial investment in preparation would give athletes a far greater chance of standing on the podium than relying mainly on bonuses after the fact.
Botsyo also acknowledged the efforts of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) Ghana, thanking the leadership and management for their support, preparation programmes and financial assistance ahead of Glasgow 2026.
With Glasgow now behind him, the seasoned racer has turned his attention to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
He urged policymakers to adopt a long-term investment strategy that puts athlete development first.
“Invest $9,000 in preparation and reward me with $1,000 if I win gold,”_ he reiterated. _“That is the approach that will put preparation, opportunity and performance at the heart of Ghana’s pursuit of international sporting success.”
