Championing the Inclusion of People with Intellectual Disabilities in Africa

Ijeoma Fynecountry is the Legal Resources Person Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria Is
one of the many Activists in Africa and a proud enforce of the inclusion agenda in Nigeria
and she happened to feature in a few sessions at the “we are inclusion” world congress
2025. she says that Africa is catching up with The Agenda of Inclusion of people with
intellectual disabilities in all sections of the society and even some in governess however
due to a few challenges like support and infrastructure and some communities lack
capacity. And she elaborated that, but the biggest challenge so far is stereotypes about
people with intellectual disabilities but she so of Platforms the world Congress and
organizations like Inclusion Africa for the efforts put in and for the job well done. Help me
correct this blog post and add in some more information that can make the story capitative
and professional

Ijeoma Fynecountry, a legal resources person at the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria,
is a prominent advocate for the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in all
sectors of society. She recently spoke at the “We Are Inclusion” World Congress 2025,
where she highlighted Africa’s progress and ongoing challenges in this area.

Fynecountry’s address in one of the sessions at the world congress acknowledged that
Africa is making strides toward inclusion. Many countries are adopting policies and
legislation, like the Discrimination Against Persons Living with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act,
2019 in Nigeria, which aims to protect the rights of people with disabilities. This progress is
a result of the tireless efforts of activists and organizations who are pushing for change.

However, she emphasized that significant challenges remain. While support and
infrastructure are improving, many communities still lack the capacity to fully implement
inclusive practices. But the single most substantial barrier, Fynecountry pointed out, is the
persistence of deep-seated stereotypes about people with intellectual disabilities. These
harmful misconceptions often lead to discrimination and social exclusion, hindering
access to education, employment, and public life.

Fynecountry praised platforms like the “We Are Inclusion” World Congress, hosted by
Inclusion International, for their crucial role in bringing global attention to these issues.
She also commended organizations like Inclusion Africa for their work in uniting advocates
and empowering families across the continent. These platforms create a space for sharing
best practices and strategies, fostering a sense of shared purpose and solidarity.

The congress itself served as a powerful testament to the global movement for inclusion.
Held in Sharjah, UAE, it brought together self-advocates, families, and professionals from
over 70 countries to discuss key themes such as inclusive healthcare, legal rights, and
economic participation. This kind of international collaboration is vital for accelerating
progress and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Her message is a blend of hope and a call to action. Africa is indeed “catching up” to the
global inclusion agenda, but the journey is far from over. By continuing to dismantle
stereotypes and strengthening support systems, activists like her are paving the way for a
more equitable and inclusive future for all.