Disability Inclusion- Friendly Barn Development Foundati

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What does it take to include children with disabilities in education during a humanitarian crisis?

For the past three years, Inclusion International has worked with the International Disability Alliance and our members in Colombia and Niger, with funding from Education Cannot Wait, to find out.

Together, we have worked with teachers, humanitarian organisations and families to test what works. Our members have led that work every step of the way.
Now we are turning those lessons into three new learning modules for our members 🌍

Day 3 at . And it's a big one. 📅

This morning, Roundtable 3 asks the question: how do we make life more accessible, so people with disabilities can participate, lead, and speak up for their own rights?

We're also co-hosting two side events today:

🔹 "Nothing About Us Without Us" (11:30am–12:45pm, online): Moving self-advocates from participation to real representation. Our President, Sue Swenson, will be speaking, alongside partners from the PM of South Africa and Down Syndrome South Africa.

🔹 Building Resilient Care and Support Systems (4:45pm–6pm, in-person, CR 12): Drawing on lessons from deinstitutionalisation and community-based support in Jordan and Zambia. Co-hosted with the PM of Jordan, Humanity and Inclusion, CBM, the European Union, and others.

One throughline: people with disabilities must be in the room, and at the table.

Follow along for updates throughout the day. 👇

Mark Mapemba Konyani representing Africa

Today we join Plena Inclusion in Madrid, Spain

Obituary.
5 May 2026 | Lusaka, Zambia_

The Friendly Barn Development Foundation is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Sylvester Katontoka — a renowned advocate, gallant leader, and unwavering champion of inclusion in Zambia and beyond.

Sylvester dedicated his life to advancing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. He spoke with courage, stood for justice, and demanded that inclusion be real for everyone. His advocacy influenced policy, shifted attitudes, and inspired a generation of leaders across the disability movement.

We still recall the time we shared notes during the shadow report in 2024 when one of our Slef-Advocates Kabanda Pelekelo was making some presentations.

His work has left an indelible mark on our nation and region. From community forums to national platforms, Sylvester reminded us that disability rights are human rights, and that a just society leaves no one behind.

To his family, colleagues, and the wider disability community: we mourn with you and honor a life lived with purpose.

Rest in power, Sylvester Katontoka. Friendly Barn Development Foundation commits to carrying your vision forward until full inclusion is achieved for all.

Issued by:
Friendly Barn Development Foundation
Board, Management & Members Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities Disability Rights Watch - DRW

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Elicious Ponde, FBDF Zambia, Self-Advocate and member living with Down syndrome, calls for an end to discrimination against children with Down syndrome in education. Denying them school denies Zambia their potential.

He reminds the nation: people with intellectual disabilities and Down syndrome are able, not disabled. With access to learning, they will shine, contribute, and help build the country.
INCLUSION INTERNATIONAL Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities
They belong, they matter, and they deserve justice — not charity. WeAreAble FBDFZambia2026

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