Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Special Olympics Namibia has announced the para-athletes who will represent the country at the upcoming African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games.
This year marks the first time that para-athletes will officially be included in the Youth Games.
The event will feature various sports codes and is expected to be a milestone for inclusion in regional youth sport.
Special Olympics Namibia welcomed the move, saying it is a historic step toward equality in sport.
“We’re thrilled to introduce our incredible athletes who will be representing Namibia at the 11th AUSC Region 5 Youth Games, hosted across Windhoek and Swakopmund from 4 to 13 July 2025. These amazing young athletes have been giving their all in training camps at Rietfontein, pushing boundaries with spirit-filled effort and unwavering dedication in every session. Let’s rally behind them,” the organisation said.
They said the games are important for the athletes, as they promote inclusion and create more opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
“They amplify visibility. Namibia’s athletes compete on a massive stage, gaining recognition and shedding barriers. They inspire unity by participating alongside other youth athletes. Our team is breaking stereotypes and building lifelong connections. Come out and show your love. Every clap, hashtag, and message helps empower these champions as they represent inclusion, courage, and Namibian pride,” they added.
Last week, AUSC organisers launched a language guide to help stakeholders communicate respectfully and accurately when speaking about athletes with disabilities.
The guide supports dignitaries, broadcasters, newsrooms, and others in using empowering and inclusive language.
It includes key terminology related to parasport, Special Olympics, and inclusive youth sport.
The guide is part of the “Making Noise campaign, a learning process aimed at building a culture of belonging, dignity, and equal visibility.
“The Making Noise campaign is an inclusive and participatory process designed to disrupt the silence and marginalisation surrounding disability sports by elevating the voices, stories, and visibility of athletes with disabilities,” the guide states.
The games will take place from 4 to 13 July 2025 in Windhoek and Swakopmund.
