Nairobi: The Kenyan Special Needs (SNE) learners have made a remarkable impact at the SNE Games, securing a gold medal in showdown and a silver medal in goalball for the Visually Impaired (VI).
According to Kenya News Agency, Kenya dominated the showdown event, defeating Uganda, which was the only other team participating. The Kenyan team clinched the gold medal for first place and the silver medal for second place in the girls' junior category, leaving Uganda in third position.
Showdown is a sport designed for the Visually Impaired, akin to table tennis, while goalball is adapted from volleyball. In the boys' junior secondary school category, Kenya triumphed over Uganda with a 2-1 victory to claim the showdown gold medal. In the junior girls' goalball event, Kenya earned the silver medal as Tanzania, the sole participating team, took the gold.
The Tanzanian goalball coach, Ibrahim Focus, observed that the competition has become increasingly challenging compared to previous years when the sport was first introduced to SNE learners in Tanzania. He emphasized that teachers across various countries are diligently preparing learners with the necessary skills for international competition. Focus highlighted that Tanzania fielded four teams in goalball, including junior and senior categories for both boys and girls, and that they train their players year-round for international events.
Joseph Opiye Kodeo, team manager for the Ugandan contingent, acknowledged Kenya's dominance in SNE sports but expressed optimism about the lessons learned. He stated that Uganda plans to intensify training and capacity building for teachers, as well as improve facilities and equipment. Kodeo noted that the FEASSA games provide SNE learners with the opportunity to compete internationally, enhancing their skills in various sports.
Charles Sigei, National Chair for the Visually Impaired team from Kenya, pointed out that FEASSA participants compete in goalball for both junior and senior schools and showdown for juniors. He mentioned that Kenya showcased blind football at the games, despite having no competitors, to encourage neighboring countries to participate.
Peninah Mutuku, Principal of Thika School for the Visually Impaired in Kiambu County, described showdown as a novel and engaging sport for the Visually Impaired. She noted that it enhances listening skills and creativity, requiring participants to concentrate, locate the ball, and aim accurately.
Fredrik Haga, Head of the Directorate of Special Needs Education at the Ministry of Education, stated that the Ministry has increased the number of sports and participation opportunities for SNE learners over the years. Despite the high cost of equipment, Haga assured that the government is committed to ensuring access to necessary resources to continue supporting SNE learners in sports.