Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Thapelo Olopeng says  government will continue to support all endeavours that promote inclusive sport in line with the National Sport and Recreation Policy of 2001.

Speaking at the national Paralympics and Deaflympics games at the University of Botswana on Wednesday (May 27), Olopeng said government has made various policy decisions to ensure the recognition and inclusion of people with disabilities within the society.

These, he said include establishment of the Disability Office within the Office of the President, affirmative action and other special dispensations.

Furthermore, he said these efforts were borne out of commitment to guarantee social inclusion and effective participation in social development and general economy as a nation.

“Therefore, it is our policy to ensure respect and dignity for people with disabilities in all spheres of life,” he said.

Minister Olopeng admitted that efforts may not be enough, but government will continue to strive to work for the betterment of the lives of all people.

He said the games should motivate Paralympics athletes not only to participate in para-sport events, emphasising that they act as a vehicle to change perceptions and leave tangible legacies. Minister Olopeng further said this year’s games were highly appreciated as more athletes and different sport codes registered to participate.

He commended Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) and PASSOBO’s collaboration for their efforts of putting in place sport development programmes for people with disabilities. He saiad the mission of PASSOBO is to lead Botswana’s Paralympic athletes in achieving sustained elite competitive excellence. Ends