Jamaica Paralympic Association President Christopher Samuda says sport cannot flourish without investment in world-class infrastructure, describing modern facilities as the foundation of athlete development, sport tourism and a sustainable sports industry.

Speaking in his capacity as vice-president of the Americas Paralympic Committee (AmPC), Samuda stressed that infrastructure must form a central pillar of every nation’s sports strategy, with governments, sporting organisations and private sector stakeholders working together to build facilities that develop talent and drive economic growth through sport.

His remarks come as Colombia showcases the benefits of that approach during the 2026 Para South American Games, which is currently ongoing in Valledupar. The municipality invested more than 17 billion Colombian pesos to refurbish nine sporting venues, creating facilities not only for the regional championships but also a lasting legacy for future generations of Colombian Paralympic and Olympic athletes.