Kashafali Shines at IndianOil New Delhi 2025
New Delhi, September 29: Salum Ageze Kashafali stole the show on the second day of the IndianOil New Delhi 2025 World Para Athletics Championships at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Sunday. The Norwegian sprinter set a new world record in the men’s 100m T12 with a time of 10.42 seconds, winning his third gold at the Championships. He had previously won gold at the Tokyo Paralympics, also in record-breaking style.
Early Life and Refugee Struggles
Born in Congo, Kashafali’s early life was shaped by civil war. He and his family sought refuge in Rwanda and Tanzania before settling in Norway in 2003 at age 10.
“Along with my parents and six siblings we first moved to Rwanda and then to Tanzania where we stayed for a year in a refugee camp and then Norway chose to take us in 2003, and I was 10 at the time.”
Norway offered safety and education, but he initially faced racism and bullying, prompting the family to move from Vadso to Bergen for a better environment.
Early Life and Refugee Struggles
Born in Congo, Kashafali’s early life was shaped by civil war. He and his family sought refuge in Rwanda and Tanzania before settling in Norway in 2003 at age 10.
“Along with my parents and six siblings we first moved to Rwanda and then to Tanzania where we stayed for a year in a refugee camp and then Norway chose to take us in 2003, and I was 10 at the time.”
Norway offered safety and education, but he initially faced racism and bullying, prompting the family to move from Vadso to Bergen for a better environment.
Overcoming Genetic Disorder
At 22, Kashafali was diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease, which severely affected his vision. After a difficult period, he switched to para-athletics and has excelled globally since.
First Visit to India
Visiting India for the first time, Kashafali appreciated the hospitality and positive vibes.
“There is a lot of positive vibes in India. People are friendly. It pretty much feels like home, I mean Congo. In Norway, people keep to themselves but in Congo, it’s like India, people are friendly and willing to help each other.”
He also admired the iconic JLN Stadium and flavorful food, noting Delhi was a bit hot but overall a pleasant experience.
Future Plans
Kashafali intends to return to Congo in 2028 after the Los Angeles Paralympics, continuing to inspire as a para-athlete who overcame war, refugee hardships, and a genetic disorder to set the track ablaze worldwide.