HOEDSPRUIT – Air Force Base (AFB) Hoedspruit marked Disability Awareness Day with a message of inclusion, understanding and support during a campaign held at the Drakensig Sports Complex on Friday, September 4.

The event was led by officer commanding Brigadier General Sylvester Matshaka, who encouraged members to support the national Casual Day initiative by wearing stickers carrying the theme, Beat as One, Rhythm Matters.

Base staff highlight disability challenges

The programme was coordinated by corporate communication officer Captain Doctor Vhuyatsha, with various sections at the base presenting information on disabilities and the challenges faced by people living with disabilities.

Among the guests were Captain Refiloe Mathabatha, a physiotherapist, and Commanding Officer Malose Makweya, a social worker, both based at the Hoedspruit Health Centre.

Mathabatha explained the significance of Casual Day, an annual national campaign of the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), which supports several beneficiaries, including Curamus Association, a non-profit organisation assisting military veterans and serving members of the SANDF.

The presentations highlighted the everyday challenges experienced by people with disabilities, including limited access to buildings and public transport. Facilities without ramps, working elevators or automatic doors can make it difficult for people with disabilities to move around independently, while some buses and taxis lack suitable lifts, secure spaces or accessible steps.

Young athletes share their journey

The event also featured two young athletes from Hoedspruit Christian School, Miracle Malatji, 14, and Junior Mkansi, 12, who shared their experiences of living with limb differences. They were accompanied by their teacher Mel van der Walt.

Miracle was born without lower limbs and has used prosthetic blades since the age of two, while Junior uses one blade. Their prostheses were sponsored by Jumping Kids.

The youngsters spoke about the challenges of learning to use prostheses and being treated differently. However, they stressed that they are ordinary children who enjoy life and playing soccer.

Miracle and Junior shine at national championships

Their determination was evident at the SASAPD National Championships held from March 28 to April 1. Miracle won bronze in the 100m and 200m and silver in the long jump in the u/17 T61 category. Junior won gold in the 100m, 200m and long jump in the u/14 category.