Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Education, innovation, youth, sports, arts and culture minister Sanet Steenkamp has called on SADC member states to ensure their development efforts are inclusive and responsive, especially towards people living with disabilities.
She made the remarks on Sunday during the Inter-Ministerial Forum on Inclusion and Sustainability held in Windhoek.
“A child cannot succeed in school if they are unwell, a youth cannot thrive in sport without mental and physical support, and no system is complete if it excludes people living with disabilities. We are called to action. Not someday, now,” said Steenkamp.
She said leaders are aware of the challenges societies face, including increasing pressure on food and water systems and the ongoing impacts of climate change.
She stressed that policymakers must move from discussion to real implementation.
“We cannot afford to work in silos. The best solutions come from collaboration, across ministries, across borders, and with our youth, our communities, and our partners. Our young people are watching. They want more than words, they want action,” she said.
Steenkamp urged delegates to leave the Forum with clear plans, time-bound commitments.
“Let us respond by leaving this Forum not only with ideas but with a clear plan; a roadmap, concrete timelines, shared goals, and a renewed sense of duty. We are therefore called to transition from dialogue to action and make practical commitments. Let this be the Forum remembered not for speechmaking, but for results.”
She said her ministry and partners involved in the Region 5 Youth Games are preparing to launch the “Making Noise” campaign, a programme aimed at raising awareness and encouraging youth participation in promoting nclusion during the games.
Steenkamp encouraged SADC delegates to support the campaign in their respective countries and turn it into a lasting movement.
“Let inclusion echo in every school, health centre, and sports ground, and make the campaign a movement, and not just a message,” said Steenkamp.
