Inclusivity for disabled children in South Africa

Uhambo USA supports the Shonaquip Social Enterprise (SSE), a South African hybrid social enterprise with over 30 years of experience, continues its mission to enable inclusion for children with disabilities and their families through locally developed assistive technology (AT), community capacity building, and advocacy. SSE provided outreach services in the John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District, Northern Cape, in partnership with Kathu Solar Park.

The activities aimed to re-establish essential AT services in under-served rural communities that have not received clinical or technical support since 2018. These efforts followed the recovery and repair of two outreach vehicles, a stock take of equipment, and re-engagement with a trusted local parent advocate, Ms. Dimakatso Serekego.

Across eight communities—including Ga-Morona, Glenred, Kugang, Dithakong, Lethlakajaneng, Gakhoe, Bothithong, and Kampaneng—outreach teams conducted 34 client engagements, including new assessments, device reviews, and minor repairs. The majority of clients require replacement postural support devices due to growth or equipment degradation. In several cases, inappropriate removal or absence of devices has resulted in secondary complications, reinforcing the urgent need for continuous AT services.

As as a result of outreach, the following were identified:

• Critical service gaps due to limited Department of Health (NCDoH) funding and capacity;
• Transport and infrastructure barriers, especially in remote areas with no public transport;
• Loss of donated tools and a lack of suitable storage options post-service delivery;
• Community resilience and support, especially through parent advocates like Ms. Serekego who enabled effective outreach by reconnecting with families.

The next outreach is planned in six months time  with an expanded focus on schools, disability centres, and reconnecting with clients whose contact details have changed.

The ongoing success of this work depends on sustained funding for devices, vehicle maintenance, and operational resources. It also reinforces the importance of an ecosystemic approach to disability inclusion: investing in local networks, infrastructure, and capacity to ensure sustainable impact.