The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) president has praised Africa’s resilience and unity as he confirmed the continent will host the 2026 IBSA African Games.
Ilgar Rahimov delivered the announcement through a letter shared at the African Paralympic Committee (AfPC) General Assembly in Accra, where he described Africa as representing “the strength of spirit, the power of unity, and the warmth of people who move forward even when the path is not easy.”
He affirmed the federation’s commitment to walking “this path together, as one family” with the African para-sport community.
The establishment of the IBSA Africa Office represents a significant structural investment in the continent, designed to amplify African voices, expand competitive opportunities and strengthen grassroots development across all nations. Rahimov emphasised that the partnership with the AfPC is “not bureaucracy but a shared promise to build a stronger future.”
The 2026 IBSA African Games will provide a dedicated continental platform for blind and visually impaired athletes, celebrating what Rahimov called “unity, pride, and new opportunities for young athletes.” The announcement builds on growing momentum in African para-sport following the successful hosting of the inaugural African Para Games in Accra in 2023.
Rahimov praised AfPC President Samson Deen for his leadership, noting that “Africa grows stronger with leaders like him at the heart of the movement.” He described Africa as representing “the strength of spirit, the power of unity, and the warmth of people who move forward even when the path is not easy.”
Beyond the Games announcement, IBSA unveiled several new initiatives to support African blind sports development. A partnership between Azerbaijan’s development agency AIDA and IBSA will provide resources for coaching, training and equipment across the continent.
The federation has also launched new mentorship and solidarity programmes aimed at building sustainable structures for blind sport in African nations. Additionally, IBSA announced the creation of its first Athletes’ Council, which will be chaired by Kenyan athlete Sella, whose voice Rahimov said “represents all who train, dream, win, and inspire the world.”
The Athletes’ Council marks an important step in ensuring that competitors themselves have a direct say in shaping the future direction of blind sports globally.
Closing his message to the African para-sport community, Rahimov highlighted the continent’s broader significance: “Africa shows the world that dignity, mutual support, and hope can lift entire nations.”
The announcements represent a major commitment from IBSA to African blind sports development, providing both immediate support through the new office and long-term vision through the 2026 Games and development partnerships.
With the AfPC preparing to establish its headquarters in Accra and IBSA now opening its Africa office, the continent’s para-sport infrastructure is entering a period of significant institutional strengthening.
