Deputy Minister of the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Ms Mmapaseka Steve Letsike
By Simon Manda
JOHANNESBURG, 8 April 2025 – Yesterday’s inspiring opening ceremony at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Johannesburg marked the official start of the 2025 Special Olympics Africa Regional Leadership Conference.
Board chairs, national directors, athlete leaders, and youth advocates join 120 delegates from 36 African nations in this celebration of empowerment and inclusivity.
Special Olympics South Africa Chairperson, Dr. Mathews Phosa, and Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike from the Ministry of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities both gave stirring speeches at the opening ceremony, stressing the vital significance of disability inclusion throughout the continent.
During his heartfelt speech, Dr. Phosa emphasized the sacred duty of leadership in the Special Olympics movement. “We don’t lead for prestige or power. We take the lead in establishing an environment where individuals with intellectual disabilities can live, be heard, and be acknowledged and valued,” he said. “What sort of leaders will our athletes think we were? Will we be the ones to walk through doors or open them?”
Delegates were urged by Dr. Phosa to imagine a legacy that goes beyond titles. “Charter, service, and humility are the hallmarks of leadership in Special Olympics. Advocating for inclusion in systems that are still plagued by exclusion requires guts.”
In an equally powerful speech, Deputy Minister Letsike emphasized the government’s dedication to promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.
She proclaimed, “The disability rights agenda is not a low-current issue of concern but a universal human rights imperative that demands collective effort, solidarity, and strategic partnership at every level.”
The Deputy Minister emphasized that South Africa’s G20 presidency presents a chance to promote inclusivity internationally.
“Every African nation is affected by what occurs in South Africa. To make sure that inclusivity is not overlooked, we must stand tall, make it happen, and advocate for change.”
She also urged tangible action, saying, “Bridging the pay gap is something I’m passionate about. Young Olympians need to be paid, and the private sector needs to be encouraged to support Special Olympics’ efforts. It can’t just be routine. Let’s interfere with it.”
In his presentation of the Africa Region’s current status, Special Olympics Africa Region President and Managing Director Charles Nyambe emphasized the conference’s theme, “Strengthening Local Programming,” by highlighting both the region’s accomplishments and potential for development.
The four-day conference, which ends on April 10th, will cover important subjects like:
Inclusive Leadership: Transformational leadership training grounded in African identity, values, and knowledge
Unified Sports: Methods for increasing access to sports and creative initiatives such as “Unified with Refugees”
Health and Wellness: Conversations about lowering healthcare disparities and enhancing the health of persons with intellectual disabilities
Growth and Sustainability: Workshops on financial reporting tools, marketing tactics, and brand equity
Family Engagement: The best ways to increase family participation in Special Olympics programs
Youth Engagement: Resources for attracting and keeping young leaders for sustained dedication
Advocacy and Policy: Enabling program leaders to interact with legislators and impact systemic change
On April 9th, Eden School will host a hands-on Motor Activity Training Program (MATP) demonstration. This will enable delegates to watch and take part in sessions with athletes, improving their capacity to execute these programs in their home nations.
Dr. Phosa added, “This conference isn’t just an annual gathering—it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to serve and a space to reflect on our progress. We lead together. We rise together. Together, we comprise“.
Delegates are expected to create implementable plans for their home countries after the event, which marks a significant milestone in the advancement of the rights and inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities throughout Africa.
