Joburg unites for #SilentWalk&Run

Johannesburg held the eighth annual #SilentWalk&Run on September 14, a significant occasion honouring International Deaf Awareness Month.

This event, co-hosted by the Neema Foundation for the Deaf and the City of Johannesburg’s Social Development Department, aims to increase public awareness of the difficulties the deaf community faces.

The programme included a 5km silent walk through the streets of Emmarentia and a fun-filled day of games, including deaf tennis and silent yoga and aerobics.

As the nation’s 12th official language, South African Sign Language councillor Ennie Makhafola, a mayoral committee member for Health and Social Development, welcomed guests and underlined the value of helping the deaf community.

Makhafola urged residents to continue supporting the annual event, ensuring deaf interpreters are available in all government facilities to facilitate easy access for the deaf community.

African Bank has supported the deaf population in managing their funds, and the CEO of the Neema Foundation, Fatima Cele, was grateful for this help.

Cele pointed out enduring difficulties, such as community clinics and obtaining the SAPS services for GBV matters. She remains hopeful that the government will address these issues.

Peace Mabe, the deputy minister of sports, arts and culture, encouraged the hearing community to help the deaf community by pledging national government support for upcoming events.

Stakeholders like the CoE, the GBVF Response Fund and the Gauteng Department of Education supported the event.

The event is a reminder of the value of aiding the deaf community as Johannesburg promotes diversity.