The president of the Gambia Paralympics Committee, Sulayman Colley, has once again called for more support and recognition for people with disability in the country.
He however revealed the developments registered by the committee in the area of sport, as well as how it has put The Gambia on the world map of Paralympics sport.
He made these remarks on Tuesday 11 June at a presentation of Paralympics sporting materials received by the committee at their main office in Kanifing Estate.
The materials included 30 jerseys, 11 computers, 2 Paralympics sporting bikes and the London 2012 Paralympics flame.
In his remarks on the occasion, Sulayman outlined the challenges they encounter as disabled persons, but added that they have also been able to overcome some of the obstacles through his tireless efforts at keeping the association as the president.
“Being disabled myself and the love I have for sport, I believe that there is someone there gearing to work by uplifting the pride of people with disabilities in The Gambia to another level,” he said.
Colley calls for the collaboration of the government, athletes, partners and the society on the affairs of the disabled, saying his organisation alone cannot do it. “Sport in general is expensive; much more sport of people with disabilities,” he said.
He also called on the people to respect and recognize people with disability.
“We have the pride to represent The Gambia at the international level through athletics, which is a boost for the country,” he said.
Colley however applauds the Head of State and his government for his support in facilitating their trip to Tunisia and to the London 2013 Paralympics competitions.He also congratulates the British High Commissioner for funding their trip to attend a training course and seminar in Egypt to develop their capacity in disability in sport.
He bemoaned the unfair treatment meted at them whenever they go to watch sport activities at the Independence stadium in The Gambia, by denying them access to entering the stadium citing the recent Gambia-Ivory Coast match.
“Our people should not suffer on your hands. We expect you to respect, support and empower us. People have to be reasonable with people with disabilities,” he cries out.
