IBRAHIM NAFIE, Al-Ahram board chairman and editor-in-chief, was recently honoured in appreciation of his contribution to the welfare and development of people with intellectual disabilities in the region. In recognition of his efforts, Nafie was presented with the Special Olympics International Award by Ayman Abdel- Wahab, managing director of Special Olympics in the Middle East and North Africa. Expressing his gratitude, Nafie pledged to continue his support for the mentally disabled "as they need to be recognised and be active in their societies". Meanwhile, Abdel-Wahab was chosen as part of a Special Olympics executive management team that plans for the future and welfare of SO athletes. Abdel-Wahab, who was chosen by Tim Shriver, Special Olympics International (SOI) chairman, joins Jim Schmutz, North America managing director. "It is a great honour to be chosen for this job," Abdel-Wahab said. "It makes our region one of the best and equal to that of North America."