Ghana Rugby Union fosters inclusion with deaf athletes competition

The Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) organized an inclusive rugby competition on May 30, 2026. It brought together deaf and hearing athletes at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium. This event aimed to make rugby more accessible. It created chances for athletes with hearing impairments. Four teams competed: Conquerors SC Juniors, Accra Majestics Juniors, African Warriors Juniors, and the Deaf Rugby Team. The Deaf Rugby Team players came from Obuasi and Kumasi.

The day started with a coaching session. World Rugby Coach Educator and GRFU President Rafatu Inusah led it. The session focused on rugby skills and teamwork. It also covered the values of the sport. A special part was the Deaf Rugby Team's participation. Coach Hakim and Madam Inusah established this team. It started four years ago in Kumasi. The goal was to introduce deaf athletes to rugby. It aimed to build a development path for them.

Organisers used visual methods for communication. This ensured full participation. Flags and visual signals were used. These signaled stoppages and decisions. A referee's whistle was also part of it. An interpreter aided communication. This was for players, coaches, and officials. Match officials, coaches, and medical staff received briefings. They learned about the communication needs of deaf athletes. The athletes showed great skill and determination on the field. They demonstrated good sportsmanship.

The Deaf Rugby Team received praise. They showed resilience and competitiveness. They had limited access to special equipment. This equipment is common in deaf rugby. Conquerors SC Juniors won the competition. They won all three of their matches. They beat African Warriors Juniors 5-0. They then beat Accra Majestics Juniors 19-0. This secured the Cup Final victory. African Warriors Juniors won the Plate title. They defeated the Deaf Rugby Team 24-0.

The Deaf Rugby Team was supported by its coach. Yaw Kunadu is its president. Rugby Sports Development Officer Owusu Amuah attended. He works for the National Sports Authority in Kumasi. Interpreter Gifty Sammy was also there. British-Ghanaian rugby player Zainab Alema was present. Organisers called the competition a success. They said sport can break barriers. It can create opportunities for everyone. The deaf athletes’ performances showed potential. Deaf rugby can grow in Ghana. This needs sustained support and competition.

The GRFU plans to expand its programs. It will work with national and international partners. The aim is to include more deaf athletes. They want to promote greater inclusion in rugby. This competition is part of a wider effort. The Union wants rugby accessible to all. It supports athlete development and safety. It ensures equal opportunities in sport. There was no direct financial figure provided for the investment in this initiative from the source material, only the operational aspects of the competition were detailed.