Running from 19 to 26 July, the Stellenbosch camp focuses on developing Athletes and Coaches in Para Athletics and Para Powerlifting, two key sports on the programme for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Part of the GAPS Africa Pathway to Glasgow 2026, this regional development initiative is delivered by Commonwealth Sport in partnership with Stellenbosch University, working closely with African CGAs and National Paralympic Committees. The Camp aims to strengthen Para Sport pathways and increase African Para representation at future Commonwealth Games, by identifying and supporting Para Athletes with potential to qualify.

Para athlete and Coach at Stellenbosch GAPS camp in 2022
Para athlete and Coach at Stellenbosch GAPS camp in 2022

The GAPS Africa Stellenbosch 2025 Camp will provide participants with advanced training opportunities, scientific assessments, coach development, nutrition and anti-doping education (delivered by WADA Africa), and ‘Athlete voice’ workshops, to develop and support their journey as change makers. 

Athletes will put their training and learning into practice at a Para Athletics and Para Powerlifting Competition on 23 July, timed to coincide with the ‘One Year to Go’ Games celebrations in Glasgow. All participants will work closely with experienced facilitators to build their technical skills and prepare for the critical qualification period ahead of Glasgow 2026.

This camp is part of an international programme, with six camps taking place over 18 months in Australia, Jamaica, South Africa and Vanuatu. Following the camps, selected participants will benefit from bi-monthly online coaching education webinars, ongoing Athlete voice workshops, and the GAPS Alumni Network - connecting peers and sharing opportunities across Africa and the wider Commonwealth.

Commonwealth Sport Regional Development Manager for Africa and Europe, Ezera Tshabangu said:

“It is fantastic to see the GAPS Africa camp begin in Stellenbosch today, bringing together Athletes, Coaches and stakeholders with the shared goal of growing Para Sport across the continent. We are proud to work with our partners to build sustainable pathways that increase representation and ensure more para-athletes can fulfil their Commonwealth Games dreams.”

Para athletes with the Coaches at Stellenbosch GAPS camp in 2022
Para athletes and Coaches at Stellenbosch GAPS camp in 2022

Ilhaam Groenewald, Chief-Director at Maties Sport, the University’s sporting organisation said:

“Stellenbosch University is proud to be the university partner of Commonwealth Sport’s GAPS in Africa programme, and we are excited to confirm the extension of our MOU as we continue our collaboration, since 2019, as the anchor delivery and service provision partner. 

“Maties Sport is honoured to host the July 2025 GAPS Africa Camp, as we acknowledge the important role we play in advancing Para Sport development in Africa. We believe in empowering Athletes and Coaches through education, collaboration and world-class facilities access and service delivery.”

GAPS is Commonwealth Sport’s flagship Athlete development programme, delivered across multiple regions to promote inclusivity, capacity-building and sporting excellence. Building on the success of previous GAPS initiatives, this African Camp represents an important milestone in preparing the next generation of Para Sport talent for Glasgow 2026 and beyond.