Gauteng looking forward to the 10th Annual #SilentWalkAndRun
The Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation is proud to partner with the Neema Foundation for the Deaf in commemorating the 10th Annual #SilentWalkAndRun, taking place on Sunday, 13 September 2026, at the Rietvlei Zoo Farm.
Held annually during Deaf Awareness Month, the Silent Walk and Run promotes greater understanding of the Deaf community, encourages the use of sign language, and advocates for a more inclusive society where persons with disabilities enjoy equal opportunities and access.
This year’s event is held under the theme, “Shine a Blue Light on Sign Languages”, and will additionally raise awareness and funds in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile encourages Gauteng citizens to register and take part in this noble initiative:
“We encourage the people of Gauteng to join thousands of participants in marking the 10th edition of the Silent Walk and Run. This initiative not only amplifies awareness and advocacy for the Deaf community but also promotes healthy lifestyles through physical activity while fostering unity, understanding and social inclusion."
MEC Maile noted that the event reflects the Department's commitment to supporting programmes that advance social cohesion and broaden participation in sport and recreation for all citizens.
"The Silent Walk and Run is one of several community-driven initiatives supported by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation through its funding assistance programme. It aligns directly with our mandate to create inclusive spaces where all people, including persons living with disabilities, can actively participate in sport, recreation and community pogrammes."
As the event marks a decade of advocacy and solidarity, MEC Maile extended his best wishes to all participants:
"As we celebrate ten years of the Silent Walk and Run, we salute the organisers, participants and partners who continue to champion inclusion, accessibility and equal opportunities for persons living with disabilities. Together, we can build a Gauteng that leaves no one behind and where every voice, whether spoken or signed, is valued and respected."
Entries for the #SilentWalkAndRun are available at: https://foundationneema.org/silent-walk-run/
Date: Sunday, 13 September 2026
Venue: Rietvlei Zoo Farm, Alberton
Time: 08:30
For more information, please contact:
Mr. Onwabile Lubhelwana
Spokesperson: MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation
Mobile: 071 531 4513 I Email: onwabile.lubhelwana@gauteng.gov.za
Mr. Phaladi Seakgwe
Director Communications: Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation
Cell: 079 075 1673 I Email: phaladi.seakgwe@gauteng.gov.za
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