In observance of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, 2026, the Down Syndrome Association of Ghana (DSAG) commemorated the occasion with a purposeful visit to the Child Health Department, embracing this year’s theme, “Together Against Loneliness.”
During the visit, the DSAG team engaged patients and their families at the Outpatient Department (OPD) through an educational session aimed at raising awareness and fostering understanding of Down Syndrome.
The Executive Director of DSAG, Agnes Teiko Nyemi-Tei, delivered a comprehensive presentation, highlighting the Association’s mission as a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting inclusion, raising awareness, and supporting individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. She also dispelled a persistent misconception that mothers are responsible for giving birth to children with Down Syndrome, emphasizing that such beliefs are both inaccurate and damaging.
Adding a deeply personal perspective, Millicent Armah, a mother of a child with Down Syndrome, shared her experiences, drawing attention to the social challenges families often face. She underscored the stigma and discrimination frequently directed at both children and their parents, highlighting the need for empathy, education, and societal support.
In line with their outreach objectives, the Association distributed educational materials to patients and caregivers to deepen understanding and encourage acceptance. The team also donated essential items—including tissue paper, detergents, and baby wipes—to assist the Child Health Department in its day-to-day operations.
The event was further enriched by the presence of Professor Nana Akyaa, a Paediatric Cardiologist, who, alongside her medical team, delivered an informative session on Down Syndrome. Her presentation emphasized the importance of awareness, early intervention, and societal acceptance in improving the quality of life for individuals with the condition.
Through this initiative, the Down Syndrome Association of Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness, advocating for inclusion, and supporting families, ensuring that individuals with Down Syndrome are seen, heard, and valued in society.
