World Down Syndrome Day was celebrated all over the world on the 21st March, 2019. Although not the first time in Uganda, it was the first time a staggering 380 people were in attendance, 180 more than initially anticipated. The theme was "Standing Up for Down Syndrome in Uganda" and the day saw many important members of Ugandan society in attendance, including Hon. Amama Mbabazi as Guest of Honor, and five Members of Parliment. Hon. Amama Mbabazi pledged to help the consortium push for inclusion of persons with Down syndrome among his peers The key take away was establishing that the Government can step in to promote inclusion for children with Down syndrome in schools across Uganda.
Overview
The project participants included: the Global Livingston Institute (GLI), Global Down Syndrome Foundation, Angel's Center for children with special needs, the Uganda Down Syndrome Association, EmbraceKulture, The children's clinic Naalya, Design Hub Kampala and parents with children with Down syndrome. The activities involved included one week of free treatment for all persons with Down syndrome powered by Children's Clinic Naalya, a fashion show on World Down syndrome F=Day and a Mountain hike organized by the Mountain Slayers of Uganda. Angels' Center officially launched their Workforce Development Program which has already raised a lot of interest from other parents who want their children to train with them.
