Special Olympics Africa Region convenes 110 delegates from 38 countries emphasizing sports development for athletes with and without intellectual disabilities across the continent.
The Special Olympics Africa Region hosted its 22nd annual Africa Leadership Conference, welcoming 110 delegates from 38 Special Olympics Programs across the continent for four days of collaboration, learning, and strategic alignment. The conference took place in Johannesburg from March 23 to March 26, 2026.
As the largest leadership gathering in the region, the conference serves as a key platform for national directors, sports directors, and athlete leaders to exchange best practices, strengthen program development, and promote inclusive sport throughout Africa. This event builds on a legacy that began with the inaugural Africa Leadership Conference in Kenya in 2004, marking over twenty years of continuous leadership development, supported by the A Very Special Christmas records fund.
This year, the conference benefits from the participation of esteemed partners and guests, including Nike, the Basketball Africa League, the Project Management Institute, UPS, and Lions Club International. Their involvement will bring valuable expertise and global perspectives to the discussions and outcomes.
Special Olympics International colleagues will also contribute to selected sessions, featuring Jon‑Paul St. Germain (Vice President of Sports Development), Ed Uphoff (Vice President of Program Technology), and Gerald Mballe (Unified with Refugees Coordinator, Special Olympics Europe Eurasia). Regional staff and athlete leaders, including Nyasha Derera and Jimmy Masina, will lead key sessions, highlighting the essential role of athlete leadership in advancing the movement.
Reflecting on this milestone, Charles Nyambe, President and Managing Director of Special Olympics Africa Region, stated:
“This 22nd Africa Leadership Conference is both a celebration and a call to action. Since our first conference in Kenya in 2004, we have witnessed the impact of bringing leaders together to learn, challenge each other, and drive our mission forward. As we convene again this year, our focus remains: to enhance sports delivery, elevate athlete leadership, and empower every Program across Africa to foster inclusive communities where people with intellectual disabilities can thrive.”
During the conference, delegates will participate in sessions centered on leadership, sports development, program quality, partnerships, and strategic alignment, reaffirming Special Olympics Africa Region’s dedication to using sport as a tool for inclusion, dignity, and opportunity. A highlight includes a Unified Basketball demonstration event hosted by Special Olympics South Africa at 3 Square Sports Stadium in Alexandra, featuring training from NBA Africa.
The Special Olympics Africa Leadership Conference has, over the years, played a crucial role in advancing the movement across the continent, encouraging collaboration among Programs and strengthening the systems that support athletes with intellectual disabilities and their communities.
