The City’s Directorate of Sport and Recreation has partnered with several state and private entities to equip physically impaired people with the intricacies of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Amongst other initiatives, the partnership entails teaching physically handicapped people computer literacy as well as various social and sporting skills, including aerobics and other sporting codes. The partnership involves Central Gauteng Athletics, SAFE HUB and Lead Change Development, a non-profit organisation (NPO). It’s hoped the initiative will encourage social cohesion for all residents of Joburg.
The municipality is also working to address societal issues that marginalise people with disabilities, while stimulating a dialogue about the stereotypes associated with physically handicapped people. The City hopes to also address the discrimination faced by people living with physical impairments.
The Lead Change Development organisation promises to provide free services for disabled people and offer skills that are recognised internationally. Courses on offer are all accredited and the qualifications can be used across all countries in Africa. “In most cases, people with disabilities are excluded from various opportunities. We want our communities to know that we may have a disability but we can interact and take part in sport and other professional activities,” says Senzo Ngonambi, Co-Founder and Director of Lead Change Development.
The City is constantly evaluating its policies to ensure they accommodate the needs of people with physical disabilities while embracing their talents. “We have established relationships which we believe will go a long way in helping us identify talent from across Johannesburg,” says Mandla Radebe, the General Manager for Central Gauteng Athletics.
To fight the scourge of abuse and neglect suffered by people with physical impairments, the City plans to host more sporting events to get them involved in social activities. Although Covid-19 regulations do not encourage social gatherings, the City hopes to ensure the needs and demands of people living with disabilities are met. “I am very happy to be part of any event that creates awareness of people living with disabilities and reminds people that we do exist and we do have a voice in decision making,” says Gugulethu Zungu, a beneficiary of the programme.
Written by Gontse ‘GeE’ Hlophe