By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare-12 December 2024 – Special Olympics Zimbabwe (SOZ) continues its mission of fostering inclusion and empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) through sports and community engagement.
Today, at Chengetai Special School in Mutare, SOZ hosted a Family Health Forum aimed at addressing the challenges and opportunities for children with ID. The event, facilitated by Mrs. Lilian Chikara, National Director of Special Olympics Zimbabwe, highlighted the importance of education, health, and advocacy for people with disabilities.
Mrs. Chikara provided an inspiring background on SOZ, which has been transforming lives since its registration in 1987.
As part of the global Special Olympics movement founded by Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968, SOZ uses sports as a tool for inclusion and empowerment. “Disability is disability, whether mental or physical,” she emphasized, noting that according to the World Health Organization, 3% of every population in any country has a disability.
The forum also served as a platform for parents to voice their concerns and ideas. Parents called on the Manicaland Sub Program leadership to establish partnerships with polytechnics and vocational training centers to ensure that people with ID are included in technical education programs.
“There is a need for Memoranda of Understanding with technical colleges,” one parent remarked, emphasizing the importance of creating pathways for individuals with ID to gain practical skills.
Ketiwe Chikakai, a community health nurse from Mutare City Council, urged parents to stop stigmatizing children with ID.
“Stigmatization starts with parents who hide their children,” she said. “Parents should feel comfortable bringing their children out to associate with others.” Chikakai praised the progress being made, as more nurses and teachers are now trained to work effectively with children with ID.
She also highlighted the role of early intervention in improving outcomes for children with ID.
“Parents should take their children for monitoring up to the age of five to ensure any issues are identified and addressed early,” she advised. She encouraged parents to seek support from rehabilitation centers, social welfare offices, and psychologists when necessary.
Chikakai provided valuable health advice, urging mothers to register pregnancies early and avoid smoking or drinking alcohol to reduce the risk factors for ID.
“Women must be strong during labor and follow medical instructions,” she said, noting that complications during delivery could lead to conditions like epilepsy, which may contribute to intellectual disability.
On nutrition, she emphasized the importance of breastfeeding children up to two years and ensuring they receive a balanced diet to prevent malnutrition. “Parents must be patient and dedicated to feeding their children with ID properly,” she stressed.
Community Support and Advocacy
The forum was attended by parents of children with ID, Manicaland Sub Program Chairperson Mr. Taurai Muboko, and SOZ Board Member Mrs. Caroline Makoni, who is also from the Ministry of Sports and Culture.
Special Olympics Zimbabwe continues to break barriers, advocating for dignity, respect, and opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.
Today’s forum not only empowered parents with knowledge but also reinforced the organization’s mission of fostering understanding and acceptance through collaboration and community action.
SOZ remains a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right support, individuals with ID can thrive, achieve professional success, and live fulfilling lives.