Ghana’s Black Challenge have officially unveiled their squad for the 2026 Amputee World Cup, with the team receiving calls for increased support ahead of their campaign in Mexico.

The squad was unveiled by the Ghana Paralympic Committee at a ceremony held at the ESP Hotel in Accra, attended by Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams and Director-General of the National Sports Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.

The ceremony formed part of efforts to rally support around the team as they prepare to represent Ghana at the global tournament in San Juan de los Lagos.

Mr Adams used the occasion to commend the players for their commitment and appealed to Corporate Ghana to step up its support for the team, stressing the importance of backing the players throughout their preparation and not only after success has been achieved.

The Minister’s appeal comes after Gold Fields pledged $500,000 towards supporting the Black Challenge, with $250,000 of the amount expected to be used for preparations for the World Cup.

“These gentlemen deserve our attention and support. Their story should not be important only when they win something. Don’t wait for them to win a trophy, help them to win the trophies. We must start with the preparation, the difficult moment, and the journey itself,” Mr Adams said.

He further assured the team of the government’s commitment to supporting their preparations and addressing outstanding pledges made towards their campaign.

“This government will continue working to ensure that your sacrifices are treated with the respect and recognition they deserve. I’ve requested your leaders to bring all documentation so we can follow up on the pledges or promises that have been made verbally, so we can find a way to resolve those things so that there’ll be joy and happiness in their hearts as they represent Ghana,” he said.

President of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana, Samson Deen, also announced financial incentives for the Black Challenge under the NPC Ghana Target the Podium Initiative.

Mr Deen disclosed that players would receive GH₵10,000 each, while officials would receive GH₵5,000 each, should the team achieve the target set under the initiative.

“I am pleased to announce that, through NPC Ghana’s Target the Podium Initiative, we shall make GH₵10,000 available to each player and GH₵5,000 to each official of the Black Challenge squad.

“This support is intended to lift morale in camp and help you, our players, meet practical needs as you prepare for Mexico. We believe in you, and we want you to feel that support as you give your best for Ghana.”

Mr Deen also charged the players to maintain discipline, remain focused and make the most of their preparations ahead of the tournament.

“To the players, this next stage asks even more of you. Respect your coaches and protect your fitness. Be punctual, support your teammates and use every training session purposefully. “The discipline you show before departure will shape the performance you can give in Mexico.

“When you wear the national colours, you represent people from every part of Ghana. Carry that responsibility with confidence. You have already shown that you can compete under pressure. Let that experience strengthen your belief as you prepare for the World Cup.”

The Black Challenge are scheduled to intensify their preparations with a training camp in Turkey next month before traveling to Mexico for the tournament.

The 2026 Amputee World Cup will be held from November 13 to 22 in San Juan de los Lagos, Mexico.