In line with World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), marked annually on March 21, Rwanda Down Syndrome Organization (RDSO) hosted an event for individuals with Down syndrome, to celebrate their unique abilities and contributions to society. The theme of this year’s WDSD was ‘End the Stereotypes’.

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Edwige Musabe, the vice-chairperson of RDSO, said the organisation works tirelessly to fight stereotypes and ensure that individuals with Down syndrome receive the support they need to thrive.

"Our mission is to fight stereotypes and ensure that individuals with Down syndrome receive support through advocacy efforts, support programmes, and awareness campaigns,” she said.

During the event, inspiring stories from individuals with Down syndrome were told, many of whom are actively raising awareness.

Eric Ishimwe, 26, an advocate living with Down syndrome, shared his experience of working at a coffee shop in Kicukiro since February this year.

"Working at the café has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me. I started working there in February, and it has been a journey filled with growth, learning, and empowerment. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to the café’s success and be a part of a supportive and inclusive work environment,” Ishimwe said.

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Living with Down syndrome hasn’t been easy for 23-year-old Louise Isimbi, however, she acknowledges the support and training provided by RDSO, which enabled her to pursue her passions and dreams.

"I acquired an internship at Du Hope Organisation, which allowed me to show my skills in making bracelets and necklaces,” Isimbi said

During the event, Dr Leon Mutesa, a medical geneticist, delved into the challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome in Rwanda, citing discrimination, low school attendance rates, and stigma as the leading obstacles.

"Discrimination against individuals with Down syndrome can take various forms, including social exclusion, limited access to education and employment opportunities, and negative stereotypes,” Mutesa said.

"This discrimination contributes to their marginalisation and hinders their full participation in society. It is essential to address these discriminatory attitudes and practices to ensure the inclusion and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome,” he added.

Mutesa also outlined the causes and symptoms of Down syndrome, including genetic factors, to give a better understanding to parents and guardians who attended the event.

"Down syndrome is typically caused by a random error in cell division that results in the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material alters the normal development and function of the body, leading to the characteristic features and health issues associated with Down syndrome,” Mutesa said.

Some common symptoms or characteristics of Down syndrome may display a variety of physical and cognitive features.

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"These include delayed growth and development, intellectual disabilities, distinctive facial features such as a flat facial profile and almond-shaped eyes, medical conditions such as heart defects and gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to note that the severity of these symptoms can vary widely among individuals with Down syndrome,” Mutesa explained.

With over 1,000 individuals, (including children), diagnosed with Down syndrome in Rwanda, Mutesa emphasised the importance of accessible healthcare and support systems.

While there is no cure for Down syndrome, surgical interventions can help alleviate some symptoms and improve quality of life.

As the event concluded, attendees were left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome, through continued education, support, and empowerment.