The Namibia Special Olympic president, Charles Nyambe has given credit to the local Olympic movement for an inspirational Motor Activity Training Programme (MATP) over the weekend.
Posting on his FaceBook page, Nyambe says: “ What a deeply fulfilling day it was today, Friday, 14 August, to serve at an event that so powerfully reminded me why I do this work, and why our daily efforts matter.
“Today, I saw the impact come alive. I left energised, renewed, and inspired to do even more, and to do it even better. Like the knickpoint of a river, where the water gathers new energy and begins to flow with greater force and purpose, today has refreshed my own commitment to this movement and to the athletes and families we are privileged to serve.”
Nyambe says the event was a powerful reminder of why the Special Olympics exists. “To open doors, to create belonging, and to ensure that every person, regardless of ability, circumstance, or support needs, is seen, valued, celebrated, and given the opportunity to shine.”
He says the MATP is one of the most meaningful programmes within the Special Olympics because it serves athletes with profound intellectual disabilities and high support needs.
“Through individualised, movement-based sport activities, athletes are supported to develop mobility, balance, dexterity, striking, kicking, social interaction, confidence, and a deep sense of achievement,” says Nyambe.
He says MATP reminds him that sport is not only about medals, records, or competition, but about dignity and inclusion.
Nyambe, who is also the Special Olympic regional president and managing director, says sport is about discovering ability where the world may have seen limitations.
“It is about giving every athlete a platform to be recognised not for what they cannot do, but for the courage, joy, and determination they bring to every movement, every effort, and every achievement.”
He extended a word of appreciation for government and corporate leaders who attended the event saying it demonstrated to the athletes and their families that they are in invisible.
“It told schools, coaches, and communities that they are not alone. It reminded our nation that inclusion must be more than a beautiful word, it must become a daily commitment reflected in policy, partnership, resources, access, and opportunity.”
Inclusion, he continues gives athletes a platform and gives communities a practical, human, and deeply necessary model of being part reminding us that “every person has gifts to offer, every life carries value, and every athlete deserves the chance to belong, participate, and shine”.
Nyambe thanked the Lions Clubs International Windhoek secretary Anita Kreft, who gave her time to serve the athletes and, through her example, reminded people of the heart of service that Lions Clubs International represents.
“My sincere appreciation also goes to UNICEF representative in Namibia Amuel Kweku Ocran, for gracing the event with his presence and support.”
