The Special Olympics torch arrives in Rustenburg, marking the start of a national journey to identify and celebrate South Africa’s athletes with intellectual disabilities.
President of Al Jama-ah and Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hon. Ganief Hendricks, officially handed over the South African Special Olympics torch to the Station Commander of Rustenburg Police Station, ahead of its ceremonial journey to the stadium.
The torch marked the beginning of the Special Olympics National Summer Games, where athletes from across South Africa will compete for the opportunity to be selected for the national team representing the country at the Special Olympics.
For Al Jama-ah, the occasion represents far more than the start of a sporting event. Sport provides people with disabilities an opportunity to demonstrate their ability, build confidence, develop friendships and participate fully in community and national life.
The initiative also reflects Deputy Minister Hendricks’ national mandate as a champion for people with disabilities, supporting government’s commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities are recognised, included and given meaningful opportunities to participate and excel.
The lighting of the torch is therefore both a celebration and a symbol — of ability over limitation, inclusion over exclusion, and the determination of South Africa’s athletes to represent their communities and their country with pride.
As the torch is lit and the Games begin, Al Jama-ah wishes every athlete the very best and celebrates their courage, commitment and achievements.
