African Athletes Poised for Greatness at the Paris 2024 Paralympics

The world is on the verge of witnessing one of the most inspiring sporting spectacles as the Paralympic Games unfold in Paris.

Over the course of 11 days, approximately 4,400 elite athletes with disabilities, permanent injuries, or impairments will vie for 549 medals across 22 different sports.

This year, a powerful shift in narrative is underway—these athletes are not just participants but fierce competitors, fully deserving of their place on the global stage.

With Paris, the City of Light, once again setting the scene, the Paralympic flame will illuminate the extraordinary strength, resilience, and competitive spirit of these remarkable athletes.

African Paralympic Journey: A Rising Force

Africa’s involvement in the Paralympic Games has grown exponentially over the years, transforming the continent into a formidable force in the world of para-sport. The 2020 Tokyo Games showcased this evolution, with African nations clinching a total of 63 medals, including 21 golds, despite the significant disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although the medal count dipped from the 97 medals secured at Rio 2016, the determination and progress of African athletes were unmistakable. As the Paris 2024 Games approach, there’s a palpable sense of optimism that African athletes will continue to push boundaries, set new records, and inspire millions across the continent.

African Powerhouses Ready to Dominate

As the Paralympics near, several African countries stand out as strong contenders for the podium. Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa are the heavyweights, consistently delivering outstanding performances at past Games.

Tunisia, for example, takes pride in athletes like Tlili Raoua, who emerged as the most successful African female athlete at Tokyo 2020 with two gold medals and world records in the women’s F41 shot put and discus.

Morocco, too, achieved its best-ever Paralympic ranking in Tokyo, thanks to exceptional athletes like Abdeslam Hili and El Amin Chentouf.

These nations, backed by their rich history of success, are ready to make an indelible mark in Paris, with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars eager to shine.

South Africa’s Quest for Glory

Photo Credit: Gallo/Getty

South Africa’s storied history in the Paralympic Games is a testament to its dedication to excellence. As Paris 2024 approaches, the country’s athletes are primed to add new chapters to this legacy. Leading the charge is Mpumelelo Mhlongo, a sprinter and long jumper in the T44 category, who has already set multiple world records.

Another standout is Kat Swanepoel, a swimmer competing in the S5 and SB4 categories, who has consistently earned medals at the World Championships.

Photo credit:@GSport4Girls

Meanwhile, Ntando Mahlangu, a T61 sprinter and long jumper, is poised to defend his gold medals from Tokyo 2020, where he set a new world record.

Photo credit: Roger Sedres

Anrune Weyers and Pieter du Preez also carry South Africa’s hopes, with their impressive track records in athletics and cycling ensuring that the nation will once again be a force to reckon with.

Photo credit: Issei Kato/Reuters

Rising Stars and Pioneers to Watch

Africa’s future in the Paralympics shines bright, thanks to a new generation of athletes who are ready to break records and make history in Paris.

Salma Ali of Egypt, the 2022 African champion in the women’s K44 -52kg category, is determined to surpass her sixth-place finish from Tokyo.

Photo credit: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images

Mauritius’ Noemi Alphonse, a rising star in the T54 division, made waves as the first Mauritian to reach a Paralympic final and recently clinched medals at the 2023 World Championships.

Photo credit: Matthias Hangst/Getty Images

Nigeria’s Lauritta Onye, a trailblazing athlete and actress, has consistently dominated the women’s shot put F40, and her quest for gold in Paris will undoubtedly inspire many across the continent.

Photo credit: Lucas Uebel/ Getty Images

As African athletes prepare to take the stage at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, they do so with the support and pride of an entire continent behind them.

These athletes have trained tirelessly, overcoming countless challenges to reach this moment, and they are ready to compete with heart and determination.

Their performances in Paris will not only be a testament to their individual prowess but also a celebration of African unity and strength.

As they compete, we stand with them, united in our hope for their success and inspired by their journey. Good luck to all our Paralympians—when you achieve greatness, you do so for all of Africa!

Download the Podium Pursuit FanApp today and embark on a journey filled with passion, competition, and unforgettable moments in the world of sports!

Brought to you by

PROTOUCH AFRICA is a purpose-led and Sports Tech business founded in 2016 with a focus on enabling African Athletes to perform on the World Stage.

It is pioneering new ways for fans to interact and engage with their favourite teams, leagues, and athletes and enable alternative revenue streams.

ProTouch Africa’s Podium Pursuit Project is focused on creating a transparent and sustainable funding mechanism for the next generation of African Athletes. Its vision is to launch the World’s first fan-owned impact investment platform for African Athletes in 2024 by assembling an ecosystem of top-performing athletes, their fans, and the brands that support them.