In a world that’s constantly on the move, it’s all too easy to overlook the challenges faced by children and adults with disabilities. The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) has been at the forefront of raising awareness and making a meaningful difference. This year marks the 12th anniversary of the Nappy Run campaign, a heartwarming initiative that aims to provide dignity and inclusion for those with disabilities.

The Nappy Run campaign, running from October 3rd to December 3rd across South Africa, serves as a beacon of hope for children and adults with disabilities. The campaign is centered on encouraging donations of children’s nappies and adult incontinence products, crucial items that often go unnoticed in discussions about accessibility and inclusion.

Danie Marais, the Senior Manager of Projects and Programmes at NCPD, expresses enthusiasm for the campaign’s growth. He notes that the successful National Annual 5KM Event, held at the Johannesburg Zoo on 04 November 2023, was just the beginning. The campaign continues with various Nappy Run Events taking place across the country during Disability Rights Month, culminating in activities on International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 03 December 2023.

The need for nappies doesn’t diminish with age for children and adults with disabilities, and often require nappies well into their teen and adult years. The absence of a simple nappy can deny them the dignity, comfort, freedom of movement, and even compromise their health. As Therina, the National Director at NCPD, wisely puts it, nappies are far more than basic hygiene products; they are essential for maintaining quality of life.

The NCPD’s database of persons with disabilities and centers continues to expand, emphasizing the growing demand for support.

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support we witnessed this past Saturday at the Nappy Run 2023. According to the medal count, which was proudly awarded by our NCPD Chair, Alex Msitshana, over 420 dedicated supporters crossed the finish line, uniting in a remarkable display of solidarity for children and adults with disabilities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every participant, whose enthusiasm and commitment made the Nappy Run 2023 an extraordinary success.

With the generous support of partners like Epiroc, Marsh, Checkers, and many more, we look forward to seeing you all again next year as we continue our journey towards a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Tylo Ribeiro Mister Supranational South Africa and Somthemba Soso Makinana from Marsh lead the opening of the Run and a message on behalf of children with disabilities from our ambassador Sibusiso Smith who cut the ribbon.

Thank you so much to Thetha FM, Soweto TV and ThisAbility Newspaper for the media support.

In light of this, the NCPD issues a heartfelt call to all South Africans to contribute to its nappy collection drive. You can participate by donating nappies larger than standard baby sizes, making a monetary contribution (Nappy Rands) to purchase nappies, or simply by dropping off nappies. Detailed information on how to support this initiative is available on the Nappy Run website: http://www.nappyrun.org.za.