Ananias Shikongo

Ananias Shikongo (1986) is Namibia’s sprint champion in 100m and 200m in T11 (totally blind). He made his personal dream of winning gold for Namibia in 200m at the Paralympics of Rio 2016 come true. He is competing against the world’s best from Europa, US and Latin America. 

Ananias grew up in Okangolo, Oshikoto Region, northern Namibia, in a village not too far from the Angolan border. He lost his eyesight in tragic circumstances while being still a young boy. He went to special School in Ongwediva and Windhoek Technical High School.

Despite, or because of this tragedy, Ananias managed to become a great sportsman, a model athlete, the fastest African (blind) sprinter. His character and his courage allowed him to overcome and to reach incredible heights: Namibian champion, African champion, World Silver Medallist, Paralympic Record Holder.

Fueled by unyielding ambition, Shikongo relentlessly pursues athletic excellence, aiming to surpass personal bests and set new benchmarks. His strength lies in rigorous training routines, translating into enhanced performance, while he candidly acknowledges the challenges of insufficient mental preparation.

Guided by unwavering support from his parents and inspired by the legacy of Frank Fredericks, particularly in the 200m, Shikongo envisions contributing significantly to sports development, especially in Special Schools. His mantra, "Trouble maker on the track" or "Omukuusinda Omulumentu" in Oshiwambo, encapsulates his tenacity and competitive nature.

At the Paralympics of 2016 in Rio de Janeiro Ananias won a gold medal in the 200m with a Paralympic Record time of 22.44 seconds. He brought also two bronze medals in the 100m and 400m to Namibia. Now he is eager to break the world record!