Disability - Disability, sport and social change in sub-Saharan Africa: para sport against stigma

Research has recently begun to focus on using Para sport to stimulate social change for disabled people in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this chapter we review the emerging research developments and suggest some ways forward. First, we discuss the potential of Para sport as a tool to challenge stigma and discrimination faced by disabled people. Following this we focus on the politics of sport and disability and the cultural implications in the development of Para sport. Against this backdrop we argue how embedding a sense of social activism in Para Sport development can help improve the lives of disabled people in Sub-Saharan Africa. We close by suggesting future research directions including theoretical and methodological considerations. Throughout the chapter we will draw on examples and activities in Malawi as part of our research project called Para Sport Against Stigma.