Malawi: The Center for Down Syndrome, Sickle Cell, Anemia, and Autism (CEDOSSA) has asked for the support of the government for people with down syndrome. The organization has been working for the upliftment and rights of people living genetic disorders.
They also appealed to employers and the public to provide more support to persons with Down Syndrome. They believe that it is crucial for rooting out the challenges they face in their day to day life due to their condition.
Lauryn Sulani, Director of CEDOSSA highlighted that the organizations have to work on promoting inclusion to support people with Down Syndrome.
“We are asking employers to consider persons with Down Syndrome based on their capabilities. Inclusion in organizations is a long-term goal that starts from early childhood with interventions like physiotherapy and speech therapy,” Sulani said.
She further highlighted the challenges that people living with down syndrome face. Further, they urged both the government and the public to provide necessary support.
“People with Down Syndrome face challenges such as lack of support from their families and inadequate treatment and surgeries for heart conditions that require operations.
“Let us support and embrace people who have Down Syndrome. Government should be supporting resource centres with materials needed in the resource rooms and train more special needs teachers,” she said.
Sulani also mentioned that her Center has established October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month. The aim of the commemoration is to combat discrimination and raise awareness about the condition. The awareness campaign on the condition may help to reach out to many people, and make people understand what causes Down Syndrome and where to go for medical support.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, Adrian Chikumbe said the fight against discrimination is a priority for the government.
“The ministry is actively discouraging any form of discrimination, including against those with Down Syndrome,” Chikumbe said. According to Chikumbe, the country has over 100 conditions that the government is addressing to mitigate discrimination.
However, he highlighted that Down Syndrome has not affected many people in Malawi, unlike other conditions. As such, the government does not have to invest too much funds into addressing the issues.