A feature by Auberon Jeleel Odoom
Accra, March 21, GNA – Papafio Kwei, an 11-year-old boy from Accra-Chorkor, is the heart of his community. His laughter fills the air as he chases after a football at the local park, often sidelined yet brimming with enthusiasm. His love for painting and drawing reflects his creativity, but his parents, prioritising conventional academic success, gently steer him towards improving his English proficiency.
Born on March 21, 2012—a date that coincides with World Down Syndrome Day—Papafio was diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth. His parents, Atswei and Nii Kwei, were overwhelmed by mixed emotions: joy at his arrival, yet uncertainty about his future. As a nursery teacher and small business owner, respectively, they struggled to find reliable information on education and healthcare.
They soon realised that many other families faced similar challenges, from isolation to a lack of clear guidance on raising a child with Down syndrome.
Determined to secure a better future for their son, the couple sought early intervention therapies and enrolled him in an inclusive preschool, where he thrived socially and academically. Yet, systemic barriers persisted. Access to specialised healthcare, inclusive education, and broader community acceptance remained significant hurdles, not just for Papafio but for many others like him across Ghana.
Bridging the Gaps in Ghana’s Support Systems
Every year on March 21, the world observes World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) to promote awareness, advocate for the rights of persons with Down syndrome, and champion their inclusion in all aspects of society. This year’s theme, “Improve Our Support Systems,” highlights the urgent need for Ghana to enhance its policies and services for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
Although progress has been made in disability awareness and inclusive education, critical gaps remain. Families continue to struggle with limited access to quality healthcare, inclusive schools, and specialised therapies tailored to the needs of individuals with Down syndrome. The stigma surrounding the condition also prevents many from receiving the support they need.
To address these challenges, stakeholders must prioritise:
Full Implementation of the Inclusive Education Policy: Ensuring children with Down syndrome learn alongside their peers with adequate support from trained educators.
Expansion of Specialised Healthcare Services: Providing routine check-ups and therapies designed for individuals with Down syndrome, who often face multiple health conditions.
Comprehensive Public Awareness Campaigns: Combating stigma and fostering greater acceptance and understanding of Down syndrome within communities.
Strengthening Family Support Networks: Establishing robust groups where parents and caregivers can share experiences, resources, and strategies to support their children.
Government and NGO Collaboration: Fostering stronger partnerships between governmental agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and civil society groups to coordinate efforts in supporting individuals with Down syndrome.
A Call to Action
On this World Down Syndrome Day, Ghanaians are urged to stand in solidarity with families like Papafio’s by advocating for stronger support systems.
Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, participate fully in their communities, and pursue their dreams without barriers.
Get Involved
Participate in local events and activities that promote Down syndrome awareness.
Share stories like Papafio’s on social media using the hashtags #SupportPapafio and #WDSD2025.
Advocate for policies that improve the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
The author is the Executive Director of Inclusion Ghana
GNA
BAS