Reviewing the sustainable development of sport in Africa

The Special Olympics Africa Region took part in a workshop to review the policy framework for the sustainable development of sport in Africa

From 25–27 July 2019, Special Olympics Africa took part in the historic exercise to review the African Union (AU) Sports Policy. About 30 delegates from several sports organizations, AU regional bodies and representatives of UNESCO participated in the workshop to craft the first draft of the reviewed policy.

Special Olympics was afforded an opportunity to make a presentation to introduce the movement and raise issues of concern affecting the running of programs in the region. The opportunity was used to raise awareness about Special Olympics, and the role it plays to bring social development of people with intellectual disabilities through sports.

Of importance, the talk also clarified the difference between Special Olympics and Paralympics, as that has been the source of confusion within the sports industry in the region. Special Olympics strategic goals and programming were outlined, and the challenges faced by Special Olympics programs were tabled.

Amongst the issues raised, was the absence of support from various ministries of sports, and the fragmented recognition of the movement by different government agencies like health, social welfare and education.

This fragmentation has affected the take up and recognition of sports as a tool for development and peace. Special Olympics has done so much in this area by conducting health screenings, collecting data on the health status of athletes and intervening in reducing the existing health disparities through inclusive health care and physical activity to improve the health outcomes of people with intellectual disabilities.

Added to this was the promotion of inclusive education through Unified Sports and the Young Athletes programmes, as well as the promotion of peace through program extension in refugee camps.

All these aspects warrant recognition and support of Special Olympics as an independent and autonomous sports movement, and a significant player in the development and inclusion of Africans with intellectual disability as recommended by the AU Agenda 2063 - The Africa We Want.

By Faith Chabedi, Manager, Partnerships in Inclusive Health