The United Arab Emirates ambassador to Ghana, His Excellency Khalifa Yousif Al Zaabi, has presented cash of six thousand dollars ($6,000) to the contingent Special Olympics Ghana ahead of their World Games in Abu Dhabi.
The short ceremony which happened at the residence of the ambassador attracted some Board Members and officials of Special Olympics Ghana paying a courtesy call on the representative of the UAE government before they leave the shores of Ghana for the 15thedition Special Olympics World Games to be hosted in the Gulf region.
“Though your visit is short and you are leaving on Thursday, am touched by the presence of the athletes here. I am giving you $6,000 for your petty expenses to ensure the team churns out good results when the games get underway in my country,” H.E Khalifa Yousif Al Zaabi said.
Speaking on behalf of Team Ghana, Board Chairman of Special Olympics Ghana ACP (rtd) Augustine Kokukorkor thanked the ambassador for the kind gesture.
“We are elated for this benevolent act from Your Excellency. This money has come at the right time to cushion us ahead of the event. We are grateful and promise to put the money in good use to enhance the performance of the athletics to raise the flag of Ghana high.”
Team Ghana will be among the 170 countries expected to compete for laurels in the multi-purpose sporting event meant for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The West African country will compete in 7 aside soccer, 5 aside soccer, athletics and dancing competition when the events get underway at the Zayed Sports City Stadium from March 14-21, 2019.
Ghana’s pedigree is unquestionable following their impressive performance in the last edition in Los Angeles with 3 medals after Ghana had presented 4 athletes. The Special Olympics World Games will feature 7,000 athletes in 24 events.
Story: Michael Okuley
Twitter: @MikeOkuley
