Golfers Tee Up for Down Syndrome Awareness

By Staff Writer

Golfers, families and art lovers will gather on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at TPDF Lugalo Golf Club in Dar es Salaam to promote inclusion and promoting greater understanding of people with Down syndrome.

Organised by Chadron’s Hope Foundation, “Tee Up for Down Syndrome Awareness” will bring together an 18-hole golf tournament, the Draw Your Dream Art Exhibition, and activities for children and families, creating a day of sport, creativity and community engagement.

More than 110 golfers have registered for the tournament, reflecting strong support from the golfing community for Down syndrome awareness and inclusion.

Tournament organiser and Foundation founder Elly Kitaly told Royal Golf that preparations are in full swing. 

The event seeks to bring the Down syndrome awareness message to a wider audience while challenging misconceptions and stigma that can leave people with Down syndrome and their families isolated.

Chadron’s Hope Foundation supports people with Down syndrome and their families through awareness, early intervention and family support. 

Its work includes the Imara Therapy Center and Mama Mwema, the Coalition of Mothers Raising Champions, which brings mothers together for mutual support and economic empowerment.

For Kitaly, whose son Chadron has Down syndrome, the event carries a deeply personal purpose. 

It is an opportunity to encourage communities to recognise the potential of people with Down syndrome and support their inclusion throughout their lives.

Under the message “Play the game. Create awareness. Champion inclusion,” golfers will take part in a competition that connects their love of the sport with a wider call for understanding and support.

The event also continues the Foundation’s awareness journey, captured in the slogan “From Uhuru Peak to the Golf Course.” 

The message links its earlier Kilimanjaro awareness climb with its efforts to reach new communities through golf.

Beyond the course, the Draw Your Dream Art Exhibition will showcase work by participating artists, including artists with additional needs, creating opportunities for visitors to appreciate creativity and connect with the artists.

Members of the public are encouraged to explore the exhibition and celebrate the artists’ talent.

The exhibition will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the main awareness programme taking place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Painting and fun activities for children will add to the family experience.

Businesses, organisations and members of the public are also invited to join the event and champion greater awareness and inclusion.

By bringing golf, art and families together, the Foundation hopes to inspire conversations and lasting connections that help build a more inclusive Tanzania.