AFC Leopards boss Ambani pledges continued support for Down Syndrome awareness
AFC Leopards Chairman Boniface Ambani has reaffirmed his and the club’s commitment to supporting individuals born with Down syndrome, emphasising the role of sports in promoting unity and inclusion across society.
In a message shared following World Down Syndrome Day, marked on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the former Kenyan international highlighted the importance of standing together with people living with the condition and ensuring they feel supported both individually and through community initiatives.
World Down Syndrome Day
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“Yesterday was World Down Syndrome Day. As an individual and as our club too, we shall continue to offer our support to those who were born with this condition,” Ambani stated on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
The former striker also underlined the unifying power of sports, noting that athletics provide a platform where people from all backgrounds can come together regardless of their differences. He stressed that discrimination has no place in sports or society.
“Sports unite all walks of people. No discrimination. Tuko pamoja. We shall walk this journey together,” he added.
Ambani’s message reflects a broader push within Kenyan football to embrace inclusivity and social responsibility, with clubs and players increasingly using their platforms to champion important social causes.
World Down Syndrome Day in Kenya’s football ecosystem was marked specially as kids affected by the condition took to the pitch in an awareness campaign alongside Gor Mahia and Shabana FC players at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 (Trisomy 21), resulting in intellectual disability, developmental delays, and distinct physical features like a flattened facial profile. It is not inherited but occurs randomly at conception, with risk increasing with maternal age. While it causes lifelong challenges, early intervention and therapies help individuals thrive.
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed annually on March 21 to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome. Officially recognised by the United Nations since 2012, this global day focuses on raising awareness, advocating for rights, and promoting inclusion.
