Africa-Press – Namibia. NAMIBIA Paralympic Committee (NPC) secretary general Michael Hamukwaya says despite brilliant performances in Rio de Janeiro, Paralympians continue to struggle to make ends meet.
He says Paralympic athletes need proper infrastructure, such as high-performance centres and the motivation to advance in their careers. “Some countries take up to 40 years to produce a Paralympian, but it took us six to seven years to do so. Sadly, there is discrimination against Paralympians in terms of acknowledgement,” Hamukwaya says.
“They are not seen as stars like their compatriots, yet they give 100%. When we fail to bring medals home, we are criticised and given rude responses – even from the media,” he says.
The Paralympian coach says it is not fair when athletes compete equally internationally, yet some are treated differently. He says the Paralympian programme runs over four years and requires proper funding, but the corporate sector does not regards this in a serious light.
“Not that I am discriminating, but others have bought Mercedes-Benzes, and been given a N$3 million sponsorship for the next years. All I’m saying is that athletes must be treated equally.
Hamukwaya says the current para-athletes are still in their prime, with the focus set on the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. He urges both the public and business sectors to invest in the sport and assist financially where possible. ONE FOR ALL … Michael Hamukwaya says the country’s Paralympians continue to be marginalised.
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