Marrakech – Morocco has emerged as the champion of the first-ever African Paralympic Games, held on Tuesday in Accra, Ghana. The Moroccan delegation finished the continental tournament with a total of seven medals, comprising three gold, three silver, and one bronze, marking a triumphant start to this historic sporting event.
Moroccan representatives’ exceptional performance in a variety of disciplines showcased their prowess and commitment to Paralympic sports.
In a thrilling final, the Moroccan men’s national basketball team defeated Algeria with a final score of 64-45 to secure the gold medal in the African Paralympics.
In the women’s tennis singles event, Najwa Ouane put her skills, composure, and determination on display to claim the gold medal. Her victory not only solidified Morocco’s dominance but also secured her a spot in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Her compatriot, Samira Benichi, secured the silver medal, making it a remarkable day for Moroccan tennis.
Adding to Morocco’s medal tally, Najwa Awan and Samira Benichi clinched the gold medal in the women’s doubles event.
The men’s category featured Said Hammam and Hadj Bouqratcha, who displayed exemplary teamwork and resilience to win the silver medal. In the men’s individual classification, El Hadj Bouqratcha showcased his individual brilliance and added to Morocco’s success by securing the bronze medal.
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Another Moroccan team displayed their sportsmanship in the fiercely contested men’s amputee football final, but Ghana emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline. This earned Morocco the silver medal in this exciting discipline.
Morocco’s journey in the first edition of the African Paralympic Games was marked by dedication and excellence. A delegation of 70 athletes represented the North African kingdom across three sports disciplines: wheelchair basketball (men and women), wheelchair tennis (men and women), and amputee football (men).
In addition to confirming Morocco’s status as continental powerhouse in sports, their remarkable achievements on the African stage have made their nation proud as it comes to terms of the trying aftermath of a horrendous earthquake.
