In a bid to enhance identification and ensure that people with disabilities can fully enjoy their fundamental human rights, the Ministry of Health has announced plans to begin the registration of individuals with disabilities across the country.

Joel Chisite, the Acting Deputy Director of Medical Rehabilitation in the Ministry of Health, disclosed this on Friday at Chinsapo Ground in Lilongwe during the World Down Syndrome Day commemoration.

The event was organized by two charitable organizations: Sikhalo Foundation and the Centre for Down Syndrome, Sickle Cell, and Autism (CEDOSSA).

According to Chisite, having comprehensive data on people with disabilities will enable the government to allocate resources more effectively, addressing their needs more efficiently.

He noted that for too long, individuals with disabilities have been marginalized.

“This day is very important as it raises awareness about the fundamental human rights of people with Down syndrome, who often face discrimination from those around them. It is crucial to commemorate this day,” Chisite said.

Lauryn Sulani, a representative from CEDOSSA, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among various stakeholders to promote awareness campaigns.

The World Down Syndrome Day was spiced by several activities

She stressed that people with Down syndrome face numerous challenges and should receive the same recognition as other individuals with disabilities.

“As a country, we are not on the right track when it comes to promoting the human rights of people with Down syndrome, especially compared to other disabilities. These individuals face many challenges, and the government needs to implement more interventions to address them,” Sulani said.

Sulani further disclosed that her organization has plans to establish resource centers to provide essential support, including education and vocational training, to help individuals with Down syndrome become self-sufficient.

Echoing Sulani’s sentiments, Henry Mtunga from Sikhalo Foundation also called for increased civic awareness campaigns and collaborative efforts to address the challenges faced by people with Down syndrome.

Meanwhile, a parent of a child with Down syndrome from Chinsapo praised the two organizations for their work in the area. The parent noted that the civic education provided by the foundations had helped them better understand and advocate for their children’s rights.

World Down Syndrome Day is commemorated annually on March 21 since it was officially recognized by the United Nations in 2012.