Buffalo City has made sure people with disabilities can enjoy the seaside just like everyone else – because that’s how it should be. With the provision of specialised wheelchairs and the installation of a special mat that makes it easy for wheelchairs and strollers to get to the beach, everyone can enjoy the waves, the sand, and the sunshine, because inclusivity makes the beach even better!
Buffalo City, South Africa (02 January 2025) – Soaking up all the goodness and fun that the seaside has to offer has been bliss for many folks this festive season and the metropolitan municipality of Buffalo City has ensured persons with disabilities don’t miss out on the fun.
Through the installation of a new Beach Access Mat at Gonubie Beach in East London many people in wheelchairs and strollers and with physical impairments that would make accessing the beach particularly difficult can now access the beach with much ease.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), in conjunction with the Eastern Cape Government, launched the Beach Access Mat for persons with living disabilities as part of the Coastal Access Awareness campaign. To further promote universal full-beach accessibility in the East London region, specialised beach wheelchairs have also been placed at Gonubie Beach and Nahoon Beach. These can be requested at the lifesaver stations and security personnel.
Being able to enjoy a stroll by the beach and experience waves crashing against you are just some of life’s simplest pleasures that no one should ever be denied, especially not because of physical challenges beyond their control. It’s so encouraging to witness the growing trend of establishments and public spaces prioritising inclusivity and creating more accessible environments for those who have historically faced numerous barriers in sometimes the simplest of activities.
The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality further encourages beachgoers, families and friends to lend a helping hand to persons with disabilities – it would only take a moment out of your day and spread kindness which is never done in vain.
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