Celebrating ability: Gugulethu's Disability Sports Day unites locals

The spirit of inclusion was on full display on Wednesday, November 5, when the Gugulethu Sports Council hosted its annual Disability Sports Day at the NY49 sports grounds.

The event attracted participants from across the area, with organisations supporting people with intellectual impairments. Laughter, teamwork, and encouragement filled the day as teams competed in a variety of games.

Gugulethu Sports Council chairperson Sandile Sandlana said the day was set aside to ensure people with disabilities are not excluded from community sport.

“Their involvement in sport is vital for their health and overall development,” Sandlana said. “We started small last year, but the tournament has grown and attracted more individuals and organisations. From now on, it will be an annual event every November.”

Mr Sandlana said that sport has the power to unite people regardless of their background or abilities. The council plans to partner with local businesses, government departments, and other stakeholders to strengthen community sport initiatives.

Andile Kula, from Western Cape Sport for the Disabled, said the initiative continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities.

“We are grateful to the Gugulethu Sports Council for thinking about people who are intellectually impaired,” Kula said. “We were here last year, we’re here again this year, and we’ll be back next year. The tournament keeps growing.”

The Gugulethu Older Persons’ Forum also lent its support. Chairperson Mama Nandipha Ntshona said the forum's involvement was about showing love and encouragement. “These are our children, brothers, sisters, and even parents. We must show them that they are part of us, that they are valued and loved just like everyone else,” she said.

Thozi Mciki, manager of Vuk’uhambe Self Help Association, said the event helped bring people together and fostered a sense of belonging across the community.

Belinda Nkonzo, from Disability Rights Matter, added that it was heartwarming to see children enjoying themselves on the sports field.

Teams from Nompumelelo Special School, Siviwe School of Skills, Tembaletu School for the Disabled, Vuk’uhambe, and Nontuthuzelo Workshops took part in the activities. All participants received medals in recognition of their efforts and enthusiasm.

Gugulethu resident Nasiphe Ngalo said that sport has a special way of uniting people. She said days like these remind us that everyone deserves to take part and to be celebrated.