Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has donated GH¢10,000 and five bags of rice to the Volta Para Athletes team to support its preparations for the sixth Inter-Regional Wheelchair Basketball Competition.

The support, which is intended to boost the team’s preparations and morale, comes ahead of the tournament scheduled for August 14 to 17, 2026, at the Ho Sports Stadium.

The competition is expected to bring together wheelchair basketball teams from five regions, providing athletes with disabilities an opportunity to compete at a high level while promoting inclusion and participation in sports.

Mr Gunu presented the cash and food items to the team when the leadership of the Volta Para Sports and Mobility Empowerment Association (VPMEA), led by its President, Betty Gharbin, paid a courtesy call on him.

Minister backs athletes

The Regional Minister commended the athletes for their resilience and commitment to sports and urged them to aim for the championship trophy.

He encouraged the team to give its best during the competition and secure the ultimate prize for the Volta Region.

Mr Gunu reaffirmed the commitment of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) to supporting sports development in the region, particularly initiatives that create opportunities for persons with disabilities.

He also assured the organisers and participating athletes of continued support from the Regional Coordinating Council, including assistance with transport coordination and security arrangements to ensure the tournament was conducted safely and successfully.

Support to ease team’s burden

The leadership of VPMEA expressed appreciation to the Regional Minister for the timely intervention, saying the financial and material support would help ease some of the team’s logistical challenges ahead of the competition.

The association said the assistance would also give the athletes greater peace of mind as they prepared for the tournament and enable them to concentrate on their performances.

Madam Gharbin said the competition was expected to attract about 150 participants from five regions.

She said the tournament would provide an important platform for athletes with disabilities to demonstrate their abilities, promote wheelchair basketball and strengthen the inclusion of persons with disabilities in competitive sports.

The sixth Inter-Regional Wheelchair Basketball Competition is expected to run from August 14 to 17 at the Ho Sports Stadium.