Disability-inclusive domino competition promotes unity and accessibility in Guyana

As part of the UN’s 80th anniversary observance, the UN System in Guyana partnered with the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) to host a domino competition, highlighting the power of sport in promoting inclusion and accessibility.

Held at the UN House, the event brought together representatives from Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), UN agencies, private sector and civil society groups for a day of consultation and friendly competition. Aligned with the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (UN DIS), the event provided a space for engagement, networking, sharing of ideas, learning, strengthened partnership and promoting inclusion. The event also highlighted the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are not isolated in separate or special streams but are fully integrated into all aspects of social, cultural, and economic life.

UN Resident Coordinator Jean Kamau, opening the event, highlighted the significance of inclusive engagement and the need to integrate the voices and perspectives of persons with disabilities into every aspect of sustainable development. 

“This competition is more than a friendly game. It’s about bringing people together, using sport and social activities to foster inclusion, connection, and awareness. It reflects our shared commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals here in Guyana, particularly those related to reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive communities,” said Kamau.

Senior programme officer with the Guyana Council of ORganisations for Persons with Disabilities, Rosemarie Ramitt, noted that sporting events provide a valuable opportunity for persons with disabilities, especially women, to engage with society, build independence, and experience a sense of empowerment through inclusive participation.

“Having an event such as this really enables persons with disabilities, especially women with disabilities, to come out, socialize, be part of society, to gain that level of independence and to also achieve a sense of empowerment because they are able to participate in activities that mainstream society is also participating in,” said Ramitt.

The day began with a consultative dialogue between OPD leaders, the National Commission on Disability, and UN staff to discuss, priorities and areas of collaboration to further disability inclusion in Guyana. Following the consultation, participants engaged in a traditional domino competition. These participants included players with visual and hearing impairments, as well as wheelchair users, demonstrating the spirit of accessibility and sportsmanship.

After an exciting and competitive game, three teams emerged as the top prize winners. Winners of the competition were presented with trophies, and all participants were commended for their enthusiasm and commitment to inclusivity.

The UN System in Guyana remains committed to working in close partnership with OPDs, national authorities, and stakeholders to advance the rights of, and opportunities for persons with disabilities, ensuring that no one is left behind.