Members of the International Paralympic committee presenting the donated items to the Gambia National Paralympic committee
By Ramatoulie Jawo
The International Paralympic Committee through the government of the People’s Republic of China on Thursday, January 5th, 2023, donated Paralympic training equipment to the Gambia National Paralympic Committee.
The powerlifting equipment comes through the International Paralympic committee powerlifting equipment grant from the Zhangkong Barbell company in China.
The equipment comprises of Para powerlifting bench, Para powerlifting Bar, Para powerlifting collars, Para powerlifting Disc Racks, and Para powerlifting Discs.
In relation to the development, the National Paralympic Committee- the Gambia also received Rowing Equipment donated by the National Paralympic Committee of South Korea and two TVs for online competition.
Speaking at the presentation, the Executive Director of the National Sports Council Marcel Mendy, outlined the importance of the donated equipment to the national Paralympic Committee.
“With the presentation of the equipment today. We are more encouraged that the Athletes will do much better now. At least there will be more concentration and commitment and am sure the athletes will be more encouraged to train hard and harder. So that we can improve our standing and performance as athletes and as a country.
“The equipment will be going to the Paralympic Committee. But I can assure you at the bigger picture, it’s for the entire country. Because the equipment will be used by our athletes. These are athletes that will represent the Gambia at the continental and the international levels,” Mr. Mendy said.
Mr. Mendy said they are convinced that the equipment will go a very long way in helping improve their athletes and their standing at the International level.
“Be rest assured that this equipment will be put into good use and the purpose they are intended for. We also hope that it will enable our athletes to compete among the global elite and endeavour to bring more medals home,” He said.
Mr. Mendy further assured the International Paralympic Committee and other stakeholders that will continue to support Gambian sport at all levels.
The Secretary General of the National Paralympic Committee Sainey Camara said developing Para sports is unique and important to them.
He said it is an important element of the sporting agenda of the Gambia.
“This will manifest that having an impairment does not deter you to retire from any active work that is meaningful to your life,” He said.
Deputy Head of Mission of China in the Gambia Zhou Ninaghu, said they are committed to promoting the international Para Sports corporation and its challenges.
“I am confident that this equipment will play a vital role in the Gambia para-sport for this year’s African Paralympic games”, he said.
Mr. Ninaghou said supporting para-sport is an effective approach to help persons with disabilities to improve their physical fitness to pursue physical and mental rehabilitation.
And also be able to participate in social activities to achieve their goals.