Lodwar, March 23, 2024, (Public Communications and Media Relations)

Turkana County marks World Down Syndrome Day under the theme “End the stereotypes” which seeks to promote awareness of tackling stereotypes, myths and about the condition.

This year’s theme is a call to all supporters and allies to end stereotypes that continue to feed prejudice against people with Down syndrome.

Speaking at the event, Assistant County Commissioner for Turkana Central, Andrew Mutuma urged the residents to dismiss stereotypes and myths surrounding people with Down Syndrome.

“We have to end stereotypes so that we can put the affected persons into our support system to enable their integration and make them feel a part of the community,” he said.

County Rehabilitative Services Coordinator, Concepta Long’ole, indicated that 20 children had been enrolled for therapy at Lodwar County Referral Hospital with efforts intensified to reach the unreached.

“The county has 19 rehabilitative officers across the seven sub-county hospitals to cater to the needs of the persons with Down Syndrome and other conditions,” she said.

Long’ole added that Down Syndrome treatment was available in the form of physical, occupational and speech therapy to assist them in early development and special education.

Partners representatives present were Down Syndrome Society of Kenya, Kenya Red Cross Society, National Council for People with Disabilities and Diocese of Lodwar.