Special Olympics Tanzania (SOT) has reaffirmed its commitment to using sport as a catalyst for social inclusion, saying it is working to ensure that more children with intellectual disabilities have the opportunity to participate in sporting activities across the country.
Speaking during the launch of the Global Week of Inclusion (GWI), which runs from Monday to Friday, SOT Director Charles Rays said Tanzania has made notable progress in promoting inclusive sports but acknowledged that significant challenges remain.
He said the organisation has planned a series of activities to mark the week, including a unified football match that will bring together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities.
Details of the fixture, including the date, venue and opposing team, are expected to be announced once logistical arrangements are finalised.
"The Global Week of Inclusion is a worldwide campaign that highlights the importance of including people with intellectual disabilities in every aspect of community life," Rays said.
"As Special Olympics marks 58 years of advancing inclusion worldwide, the campaign calls on individuals, schools, businesses, media and community organisations to help build a more inclusive and respectful society."
Rays stressed that inclusion is a fundamental human right rather than a choice, noting that people with intellectual disabilities continue to face barriers to participation, opportunity and social acceptance.
"Inclusion is not a trend; it is a fundamental human right. When people with intellectual disabilities are fully included in our communities, workplaces and schools, everyone benefits. Inclusion helps reduce bullying, promotes empathy and drives meaningful social change," he said.
He added that the Global Week of Inclusion provides an opportunity to challenge stereotypes, celebrate the achievements of people with intellectual disabilities and encourage communities to embrace diversity.
As part of the celebrations, SOT will organise several inclusive sporting events bringing together athletes with intellectual disabilities and their peers without disabilities, demonstrating the power of sport to unite communities.
"We strongly believe that sport is one of the most effective tools for promoting inclusion. Athletes with intellectual disabilities perform better when they are actively engaged in sports and community activities," Rays said.
Football will headline this year's programme, alongside other sporting disciplines that will be announced during the week.
He called on the public to attend the events and support athletes as they showcase their talents.
Rays also said Special Olympics athletes are changing perceptions by demonstrating leadership, resilience and excellence both on and off the field.
"They are proving every day that they are community heroes, role models and leaders. Their achievements are encouraging schools to tackle bullying, employers to rethink inclusive hiring practices and healthcare providers to deliver services with equal dignity and respect," he said.
