The Commonwealth Games’ integrated schedule, where para‑athletes compete alongside non‑disabled rivals, is reshaping African attitudes toward disability. Unlike the Paralympics, medals earned by all athletes count equally toward a nation’s tally, a change that began in Manchester in 2002.

Uganda’s“These Games” team captain, Husnah Kukundakwe, says sport is a powerful catalyst for change. Speaking to BBC World Service, she praised the co‑location of para‑swimming with other events, noting it brings equal recognition, funding and sponsorship.

Glasgow stepped in after Victoria withdrew in July 2023, cutting ten sports but still hosting 47 para events across six disciplines. The first gold went to a para‑athlete when England’s Mark Swan lifted the lightweight powerlifting bar, with Nigeria’s Roland Ezuruike taking silver.

Para‑athletes now inspire broader participation. Noemie Alphonse of Mauritius talks about being seen on the same level, while Uganda hopes to secure its first swimming medal, a historic milestone for the nation’s para‑sport community.