KNPC and Government promise change ahead of 2028 Paralympic Games

The Kenya National Paralympic Committee (KNPC) and the government have committed to implementing changes aimed at achieving desired results at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games and other major para-sport competitions.

KNPC Secretary General Stanley Mutuma and the head of Team Kenya for the Paris Paralympic Games, Evans Achoki, emphasized the need to start preparations for both the 2028 LA Games and the 2026 Commonwealth Games without delay.

Kenya finished 75th in the medal standings at the Paris Games, trailing behind eight other African countries. The Games concluded on Sunday night with a vibrant closing ceremony at the Stade de France. Algeria led African nations, ranking 25th with 11 medals (6 gold and 5 bronze), followed by Tunisia in 27th place (5-3-3), Morocco in 31st (3-6-6), Nigeria in 40th (2-3-2), Egypt in 41st (2-3-3), Ethiopia in 44th (2-1-0), South Africa in 46th (2-0-4), and Namibia in 61st (1-0-1).

The KNPC had aimed for at least four medals but fell short, securing only one silver medal through Samson Ojuka in the men’s long jump T37 category. This marks a disappointing repeat, as Kenya only managed to win a bronze at the 2021 Tokyo Games.

Mutuma acknowledged the mixed results but highlighted that the country had increased participation across more disciplines compared to previous Games. “We had expected at least four medals from athletics, but we fell short because our rivals have raised their standards. It was evident that other countries had better preparations,” he said. He added that the positive takeaway is that Team Kenya participated without significant issues.

“The organisation of the Games was flawless, with no major incidents apart from a minor accident during the pre-Games camp in Compiègne, which is quite normal,” Mutuma explained, noting that all participants received their local and overseas allowances on time.

With five disciplines at the Games, including taekwondo and cycling, Mutuma views the increase in representation as a significant achievement. He stated that they aim to have over 30 athletes compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Games, a notable increase from the 14 who attended the Paris Games.

Mutuma mentioned a strategic plan for the 2028 Los Angeles Games and beyond, which will involve collaboration with sports federations, learning institutions for athletes with disabilities, and corporate partners. He expressed a desire to establish partnerships with countries like China and various European nations to enhance Kenya's development in para-sports.

“We will engage federations such as Athletics Kenya, Cycling, and Powerlifting to include us in their competition calendars and talent search initiatives so we can grow participation,” said Mutuma, adding that coaching and refereeing will be integral to these programs.

He emphasized that funding is crucial for the success of their initiatives, highlighting the need for effective marketing and media strategies to attract corporate sponsorships. “We are grateful to Safaricom and East African Breweries Limited for their support during the Paris Games,” he noted.

Regarding training, Mutuma stressed the importance of embracing science and technology to keep pace with global advancements. Achoki echoed this sentiment, stating that the government will provide special attention to para-sports through improved facilities, training, coaching, funding, and talent development.

“We went to support our athletes at all venues, and they performed admirably, with many achieving personal bests. It was evident that our opponents had enhanced their performance, and we have learned valuable lessons,” said Achoki. He assured that the government would be proactive in funding para-sport activities to boost performance.

“We will convene with KNPC to discuss the way forward, as we believe para-sports require much more attention,” Achoki explained, noting that teams have begun incorporating scientific methods into their preparations.

Team Kenya physiotherapist Altaf Mapara highlighted the effectiveness of a science-based approach, particularly for athletes like Ojuka and Hellen Wawira, who achieved a personal best of 101 kg in powerlifting. "We have the talent, but there is more to success. Athletes require proper nutrition, access to gyms, and psychological support to enhance their performance," Mapara emphasized.

The next group of Team Kenya athletes is scheduled to arrive in Nairobi on Monday at 9 PM via Air France, with the final group expected to land at 6 AM on Tuesday.