Participants of all ages came together at Johannesburg Zoo to support children and adults living with disabilities, enjoying a lively day full of activity and wildlife sights.
Johannesburg, South Africa (05 November 2025) – Grey clouds could not dampen the spirits at the Johannesburg Zoo this past weekend as families, caregivers, and supporters gathered for the 14th annual Nappy Run, an event that continues to unite people around the powerful message of dignity for persons with disabilities.
Organised by the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), the Nappy Run has become one of the most recognisable campaigns during Disability Rights Awareness Month, combining fitness, fun, and purpose. The walk and wheel event encourages people to donate nappies for children and adults with disabilities.
Programme Director at NCPD, Danie Marais, stressed the importance of raising awareness.
“We went and we did visits to centres that were started by moms and grannies for children with disabilities in rural areas across the country, and we saw that the need for nappies was dire. “They were using pieces of cloth or no nappies, very, very unhygienic, and we need to do something about this. That time we thought we need to do something, and here we are. We are doing this awareness campaign.”
Participants arrived in waves. To warm things up, Hope School teacher Laila Beukes kicked things off with the Macarena, getting the participants dancing and laughing before the official start. Despite the light drizzle and chilly breeze, the atmosphere remained warm and full of energy.
As the race began, families walked with wheelchairs and children waving flags with pride. And of course, it would not be a Nappy Run at the Johannesburg Zoo without the added magic of the setting. Participants got to take in the sights of zebras, monkeys and lions along the way. One can also think of it as a mini safari experience.
The event also drew special guests from Sekhukhune United FC, a club that competes in South Africa’s top-flight football league, the Betway Premiership. Captain Linda Mntambo and vice-captain Daniel Cardoso joined the crowd to show their support. The Blue Bulls’ mascot Bulletjie also added some fun, teaming up with NCPD’s beloved mascot Abel.
The Nappy Run is a movement for dignity, access, and visibility. Each year, the campaign reaches roughly 2,000 children across South Africa, distributing nappies and other essentials to families who need them most. It also goes beyond hygiene needs, helping with wheelchair assessments and pushing for inclusive education.
This year’s winners in the disability category, Lindani Shongwe and Shadrack Tshivase, embodied the event’s spirit.
The Nappy Run campaign continues through December, with ongoing collection drives nationwide. To learn how you can donate nappies or contribute to the cause, visit the NCPD’s official website.
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