The World Para Athletic Championships have concluded in Kobe, Japan, with Michael Hamukwaya, the secretary general of the Namibia National Paralympic Committee (NNPC), expressing pride in the Namibian team’s performance.

Namibia was represented by 18 athletes and guides at the championship, securing one gold medal through Chris Kinda in the 400-metre T11 race, and a bronze medal by Lahja Ishitile and her guide Sem Shimanda, also in the 400m. 

Overall, Namibia finished 39th in the standings, and increased its slots for the Paris Paralympic Games to three for males, and one for a female, an improvement from the two slots won at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. 

China topped the log with 33 gold medals, 30 silver and 24 bronze medals, followed in second by Brazil with 19 gold, 12 silver and 11 bronze medals. 

Uzbekistan was in third with seven gold medals, four silver and three bronze medals.

Hamukwaya highlighted the significance of new athletes winning medals.  “It’s encouraging to see new talent emerging and achieving success. This shows a great future for the NNPC and Namibia at large.”

He also expressed gratitude for the support from the government and NamPower.

“The NNPC will always be grateful for the support provided by the government, who funded the competition through the ministry of sport, as well as NamPower for their additional sponsorship. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting all Namibians, regardless of their background.”

Hamukwaya noted increasing the slots for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games was a key goal, and they are now awaiting the final announcement from the International Paralympic Committee regarding the exact number of slots. 

“Once we receive the final confirmation, we will announce the Namibian team that will represent the country at the Paralympic Games in Paris, which will be held from 28 August to 8 September, with over 11 days of competition,” he said.

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na