A powerful message of inclusion, ability, and opportunity echoed through Kumasi as an American Wheelchair Softball delegation visited Ghana to introduce and promote adaptive sports among persons living with disabilities.
The delegation, led by President John Robert Teegarden, arrived in Ghana on May 20, 2026, following an invitation from the Ghana Baseball and Softball Federation. The visit was coordinated by Wheelchair Softball Ghana under the federation as part of efforts to expand participation in sports and create more opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The main event of the visit was a one-day wheelchair softball clinic held in Kumasi. The programme brought together young people with disabilities, many of whom were experiencing the sport for the first time. Participants received practical training and learned the basics of wheelchair softball while also discovering the important role sports can play in building confidence, improving well-being, and creating social connections.
Beyond the sporting activities, the clinic served as an opportunity to engage families, community members, and stakeholders on the need to support adaptive sports in Ghana. Organizers highlighted the importance of breaking down barriers that often prevent persons with disabilities from fully participating in society.
During their stay, the delegation paid a courtesy call on the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, where they met with Donya Eldridge and her team. Discussions centered on the development of adaptive sports and possible partnerships between Ghana and the United States to help grow wheelchair softball and similar programmes across West Africa.
President of the Ghana Baseball and Softball Federation, Ernest Danso, reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to making sports accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability.
We want to ensure that no young person feels left out because of disability. This partnership shows what is possible when sports are opened to everyone,” he said.
Following their engagements in Ghana, the American delegation departed Accra for Nigeria, where they will continue similar development programmes with local partners.
Source: Obu