The inaugural Abia Para Badminton International Championship has brought to light the challenges faced by African players, particularly regarding wheelchair accessibility.
Karin Bester, a referee appointed by the Badminton World Federation, addressing the media yesterday at the tournament, which runs from September 30 to October 5 at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, highlighted that the primary obstacle for African competitors is the lack of suitable equipment.
“This is the biggest challenge currently. The players are not used to being strapped to the wheelchairs they have,” she explained. “Unfortunately, many African players do not possess their own wheelchairs and have to borrow from others, which complicates their participation.”
The South African referee noted that while there are challenges for wheelchair players, those competing in standing events appear to have fewer issues, as the required equipment is generally more affordable. “It’s a learning curve for everyone involved, including the umpires,” she added.
Bester’s involvement in the tournament underscores its international credibility and the commitment of both the state and the nation to host a successful event. “This is my second time in Nigeria but my first in Abia. I was pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome I received here—it’s as if I’ve been embraced as family,” she said.
Countries represented in the 19 events include Brazil, India, Peru, Egypt, Tunisia, Burkina Faso, Rwanda, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mauritius, Mozambique, and the host nation, Nigeria.
