The Western Kenya Special Needs School Games kicked off in Bungoma, offering a powerful showcase of resilience, talent, and determination among young athletes with disabilities. More than just a competition, the event serves as a rallying call to parents and the community, emphasizing that disability is not inability.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, event organizers encouraged parents to support their children in embracing challenges and showcasing their abilities.
“This is more than just a game, it’s about proving that our children have the ability to compete and excel,” said Walter Kwanusu Principal Nalondo CBM.
“We want parents to take this as an opportunity to support their children and allow them to embrace challenges positively.” He added.
The tournament features an array of athletic events, including wheelchair races, short-distance sprints for students with mobility challenges, races for the visually and hearing impaired, and competitions for students using double crutches. Officials say the best-performing athletes will be selected to represent the region at the national level, with hopes of advancing to international competitions.
Despite the growing success of the games, organizers highlighted the urgent need for sponsorship.
“We’ve had government support, but we are still struggling to secure enough sports equipment and attire for our athletes. We need more sponsors to step in and ensure these children feel valued and empowered,” Kwanusu said.
The games have already opened doors for many students, with some earning opportunities to compete internationally.
“Last year, some of our athletes traveled to Thailand to compete, and many others have found careers through these games. This isn’t just about sports; it’s about transforming lives,” he noted.
As the competition unfolds, the top athletes will be selected to form a composite Western Kenya team, which will battle against other regions at the national championships in Mombasa. With the energy and passion displayed at the games, the future looks bright for these young athletes striving to make their mark on the world stage.
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