African Bank renews partnership with NEEMA Foundation as milestone event promotes inclusion, accessibility and equal opportunities for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community
Johannesburg will host a significant milestone in Deaf awareness and advocacy when the 10th Annual NEEMA Silent Walk and Run takes place at Rietvlei Zoo Farm on 13 September 2026, marking a decade of community action and solidarity.
African Bank has renewed its partnership with the NEEMA Foundation, reaffirming its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, accessibility and opportunities for underserved communities.
For the past 10 years, the NEEMA Silent Walk has brought together members of the Deaf community, their families, advocates and supporters to raise awareness and encourage greater understanding of the challenges faced by Deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
The milestone event will not only celebrate the achievements of the Deaf community, but will also highlight ongoing barriers in areas such as education, employment, communication and access to essential services.
With September recognised as Deaf Awareness Month, the event provides an opportunity to place greater focus on Deaf culture, accessibility and the importance of creating an inclusive society where people have equal opportunities to participate and thrive.
African Bank’s partnership forms part of its broader transformation and sustainability initiatives, through which the bank supports organisations working to create meaningful social impact.
Edna Sathekga-Montse, African Bank’s Chief Transformation and Sustainability Officer, said the partnership reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting the Deaf community and advancing accessibility.
“We are honoured to partner with NEEMA Foundation for their 10th Anniversary Silent Walk and Run. The Silent Walk is more than an event; it is a movement that shines a light on the importance of accessibility, understanding, and inclusion.”
She added that African Bank remains focused on expanding access and opportunities for communities that are often underrepresented.
“As the bank for the people, by the people, serving the people, we remain dedicated to building a more inclusive and equitable society, where every person has the opportunity to succeed.”
The 10th Anniversary NEEMA Silent Walk and Run is expected to attract participants from across Gauteng and will feature a range of activities aimed at strengthening community engagement and advocacy.
A key addition to this year’s programme will be the launch of the NEEMA Soccer Cup, alongside awareness activities and community initiatives designed to promote greater understanding of Deaf rights and inclusion.
Over the past decade, the Silent Walk has developed into a platform for the Deaf community and its supporters to come together, share experiences and call attention to the importance of accessibility and equal participation.
The partnership between African Bank and NEEMA Foundation is intended to strengthen these efforts while encouraging broader community involvement in creating lasting social change.
African Bank and NEEMA are inviting community members, organisations, stakeholders and members of the public to participate in the event and stand in solidarity with the Deaf community as the foundation marks 10 years of impact, advocacy and collective action.