In an attempt to break the stigma associated with wheelchair users and create an awareness of their independence, Polokwane Municipality collaborated with various stakeholders to mark the 6th International Wheelchair Day on 1 March 2025.
The event that was organized by Beyond Disability SA in partnership with Polokwane Municipality’s special programs took place at Jack Botes Hall, Polokwane, with the disabled displaying their talents. NGOs advocating for the rights of the disabled used the platform to voice their grievances, as they demanded that the government do more to embrace people living with disabilities.
Solomon Ramaoka, activist and founder of Beyond Disability SA, said, “We are celebrating our wheelchairs as they give us freedom of mobility as we can move from one place to another; we celebrate our caregivers who caringly assist us to ride these wheelchairs and extend gratitude to the good Samaritans who donate wheelchairs to us.”
He continued saying during the day’s celebration they create widespread awareness about inclusivity.”
Patrick Tshia, Polokwane Municipality Disability Programs Coordinator, emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating, “This is part of our efforts in ensuring that the disabled feel included and cared for. We celebrate this day to accentuate wheelchair users’ self-representation and independence.
He added that Polokwane Municipality gave a helping hand to show that they care about the disabled.
“To show that the municipality embraces people living with disabilities, we contributed towards this event by donating food packages, Leeto la Polokwane buses to transport the attendees, and access to use Jack Botes Hall for free,” said Tshia.
A variety of presentations was also held featuring social activists and members of the disability community on inclusivity, accessibility, and disability rights.
The event received support from the Disabled People SA (DPSA), Rea kgona Disability Centre (RDC), and Ability Beyond Disability Foundation (ABDF).
Mahlodi Selepe, Ability Beyond Disability Foundation Care Giver, said that in celebrating this initiative beyond this day, they visit the disabled at their respective homes and inspect their living standards in order to assist where they can.
“We encounter cases where disabled people from destitute backgrounds need medical assistance, and we intervene by ensuring that they consult at the hospital and receive proper care,” said Selepe.