Today, on 3 October, in an historic moment of recognition, the 2023 Special Olympics South Africa National Team received a profound honor as His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa, warmly welcomed them to a special ceremony hosted at the iconic Union Buildings in Pretoria. This event, a significant milestone in South Africa’s history, is especially poignant given the late President Nelson Mandela’s support for Special Olympics South Africa.

For the first time, the National Government of South Africa officially acknowledged and celebrated the extraordinary achievements of individuals with intellectual disabilities in the realm of sports.

This momentous occasion was imbued with pride and inspiration as President Ramaphosa congratulated the 2023 National Team for their exceptional achievements on the global stage at the 2023 Special Olympics World Summer Games held in Berlin, Germany. Competing against 7,000 athletes from over 180 countries, they exhibited unwavering determination and sportsmanship, returning home with an impressive medal haul that included 22 Gold Medals, 20 Silver Medals and 7 Bronze Medals.

The team’s dedication and sportsmanship have not only filled South Africa with pride but have also cast a brilliant spotlight on the immense talent within the community of individuals with intellectual disabilities.