Masindi parents of children with down syndrome to receive goats

Masindi: Parents and caretakers of children with Down syndrome in Masindi District will receive two goats each as part of a new initiative aimed at improving their livelihoods.

This was announced by Katusabe Mildred, the Director of Rowan’s Down Syndrome Awareness Centre, during a monthly meeting held at Masindi Hospital on Wednesday.

The project, funded by the Abiliis Foundation, will run for one year and is designed to support parents and caretakers of children with Down syndrome by helping them rear goats, thereby boosting their household income.

Katusabe shared that the organization has 120 members, 31 of whom are based in Masindi. A total of 62 goats will be distributed to beneficiaries, with each family receiving two goats.

Among the recipients, Robinah Kaija from Rwijere Cell and Lilian Kajumba from Kihande 1 Cell expressed their gratitude, noting that while they face significant challenges in caring for their children with Down syndrome, they are hopeful that the goats will enable them to pay for school fees and purchase essential items for their children.

Milton Atugonza Isaac, the Chairperson of the Masindi Council for Disability, urged parents and caretakers to avoid hiding children with Down syndrome, as this may prevent them from benefiting from government programs and support.

Martin Atwebembire, the organization’s Public Health Coordinator, explained that Down syndrome is caused by genetic factors, including delays in receiving antenatal care, late deliveries, and chromosomal abnormalities.

He highlighted that children born with Down syndrome often experience delayed developmental milestones and exhibit physical traits such as soft bodies, short fingers, toes, and a smaller face.

The one-year goat rearing project is being implemented in Kimengo Subcounty and Nyangahya Division.

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