Advocating for equality – Hamukwaya

LIMBA MUPETAMI

WINDHOEK

The secretary-general of the Namibia Paralympic Committee (NPC), Michael Hamukwaya, says the Tokyo Paralympic Games are driving a message of inclusivity all around the world.

Hamukwaya, who is in Tokyo with the three-member Namibian team, said the Games are not only about sports but also let the world know that people with disabilities should be treated equally wherever they are.

“This has been a big challenge and Namibia is looking at inclusivity with the rest of the world,” he said.

He added that competing at the Games opens doors of opportunity for Para athletes.

The Games opened yesterday with athletes hoping to shatter stereotypes and world records despite a year-long pandemic delay and the spectre of a new wave of Covid-19 virus cases in Tokyo.

Namibia is represented by three athletes: Lahja Ishitile, Ananias Shikongo and Johannes Nambala.

Ishitile will compete on Friday in the long jump as well as the 400m heats. On Saturday, Shikongo will run in the 400 heats. Nambala will compete in the 100m heats on Sunday.

There are over 4 400 athletes from 162 teams competing in the Games, but no spectators are allowed into the competition venues.

International Paralympic Committee chief Andrew Parsons said on Monday that banning spectators was the right decision.

‘‘My message is turn on the TV and enjoy as much Paralympic Games as you can," he said.

He insisted the Games will be held safely, but added that participants "must remain vigilant. We must not be complacent.’’