Africa

Initiated in the Africa region in 1979 with the founding of Special Olympics Kenya, Special Olympics has 21 accredited programs with nearly 120,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics addresses the needs of African people with an intellectual disability in the areas of sport, health, education and leadership.  Special Olympics contributes significantly in addressing the correlation between disability and poverty, a key issue for the continent.

Spotlight on Africa

Deon Namiseb, Special Olympics Global Ambassador at the 2011 Summer World Games

"Believe in Yourself'!"

Born in Namibia with both an intellectual and physical disability, Deon Namiseb is an extraordinary example of the effect Special Olympics can have on an athlete's life. LEARN MORE ››


Anti-Malaria Campaign Debuts

Special Olympics and Lions Club International recently staged five Family Health Forum events to address health issues challenging our athletes, including a ground-breaking anti-malaria campaign. Learn more ››

Simba Conquers Kilimanjaro

Athlete Herith Sulimein, aka Simba, has proved that it is all about ability. He is the first African athlete to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Learn more ››


Special Olympics in Africa

Special Olympics Africa
3rd Floor, Twin Towers West
Corner Rivonia and 5th Street, Sandton City
Sandton, Johannesburg
South Africa

Office number: +27 11 783 8533
E - Mail: asmith@specialolympics.org

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Special Olympics Blog

A World Without Differences

Imagine a world where people actively encouraged and included other people no matter their skin color, personal preferences, or their mental or physical abilities. Wouldn’t our society be a better place?read more »

Posted on 2012-01-19 by Rebecca

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