Africa

Initiated in the Africa region in 1979 with the founding of Special Olympics Kenya, Special Olympics has 21 accredited programs with nearly 120,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics addresses the needs of African people with an intellectual disability in the areas of sport, health, education and leadership.  Special Olympics contributes significantly in addressing the correlation between disability and poverty, a key issue for the continent.

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Africa offices

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Spotlight on Africa

Deon Namiseb, Special Olympics Global Ambassador at the 2011 Summer World Games

"Believe in Yourself!"

Born in Namibia with both an intellectual and physical disability, Deon Namiseb is a shining example of the effect Special Olympics can have on an athlete's life.  LEARN MORE ››


Becca's story

In my school I met two people who have disabilities and I felt bad so I made friends with them and they are really great and caring people. Read More ››

SO Tanzania athletes at the front of the referral line!

Special Olympics Tanzania conducted a FunFitness and Health Promotion screening in the Coastal Region on 13th April. Family members were encouraged to accompany athletes to provide the clinical staff with critical health information and history. Read More ››


Sponsors in Africa

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Royal Bafokeng SportsA proud partner of Special Olympics in Africa.
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Coca-ColaOur founding partner has supported Special Olympics for decades.
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Africa resources

Nelson Mandela and Mrs Shriver at World Games
Resources for Staff, Athletes, Coaches and Volunteers

If there are resources that you need that are not available please contact Ancilla Smith at asmith@specialolympics.org
Strategic plan overview


Special Olympics Contact Information

Special Olympics Africa
Unit 300
Ground Floor, Process House
Epsom Downs Office Park
13 Sloane Street
Bryanston, 2152
Johannesburg
South Africa

Office:  +27 11 706-3323
Email: asmith@specialolympics.org

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Videos and Photos

Summer SportsOur athletes run, jump, swim and score in summer.See Slideshow »


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Power of SportsSports are a powerful way to change our athlete’s lives.See Slideshow »


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In Deep WaterGo feet first for one of the newest Special Olympics sports.See Slideshow »


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Youth and SchoolsOur programs are reaching out to a young people worldwide.See Slideshow »


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Leaders In ActionIt's been a movement of innovative leaders for decades. See Slideshow »


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What We DoSports, health, education, community and more.See Slideshow »


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Summer GamesAround the world, months of practice are paying off.See Slideshow »


Special Olympics Blog

Defying Expectations

Georgie is emerging as the only bona fide athlete in the Seigenthaler-Hayes family. There is no sport he won’t try, no athletic endeavor he’s won’t pursue. No fear. No trembling. Just do it. That’s how George rolls.

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Posted on 2013-04-23 by Tim

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