World Autism Day

I. What is  Autism:

Autism (also called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)) is a lifelong and complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects different parts of a person’s lived experiences including how they perceive the world, communicate and interact with others. It is important to understand that Autism exists on a spectrum. This means that everyone with the diagnosis will have a different experience of it and that the needs and abilities of people with autism vary significantly and can evolve over time. This nuance is an important starting point for any conversations on the disorder; some people living with autism live independently and others may require lifelong support. Autism falls within the wider bracket of neurodiversity (a term coined by sociologist Judy Singer that means that every brain functions differently rather than in one “single, right way”), it is therefore an experience we all should understand and embrace.

II. World Autism Awareness Day: Every Life Has Value:

April is World Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month and on April 2nd, people around the globe celebrate World Autism Awareness Day. Despite its name, this movement is meant to do more than create awareness, it is meant to drive true acceptance and inclusion. 

This year’s theme is Every Life Has Value. This asserts the value of equality and is our reminder that individuals should not be defined or disadvantaged because of their differences or disabilities. Every person has inherent human value.

In Kenya recent initiatives like the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) 2024 report highlight some key considerations that affect this equality. This is the first comprehensive nationwide report of its kind. Key findings include:

1. There are significant data gaps related to Autism and this is related to gaps in a central repository on information about autism.

2. Many people living with autism receive late diagnosis and there is a shortage of trained professionals. This significantly affects access to care and the ability to receive the support needed to live a thriving life.

3. There is also a need to address caregiver support. Where they may face burnout and lack legal frameworks that would support them in their roles.

III. Spotlight on African Figures and Advocates

While we may not have full historical records in Africa that detail the experiences of people with Autism. There are many contemporary figures who provide visibility to the disorder.

• Pauline Elizabeth Wamukowa: A dedicated mother and advocate who, after struggling to find accessible care for her son, founded the Mali Therapy Centre in Nairobi. Her work provides a lifeline for families, offering comprehensive therapy and a community of support.
• Dr. Emile Gouws: A prominent researcher, educator and disability advocate living with autism working at the University of South Africa, whose contributions have influenced the United Nations, Commonwealth Disabled People’s Forrum and International Council for Development and Learning.

IV. The Need for Research and Support in Kenya

Approximately 4% of Kenya’s entire population lives with Autism, and yet we still do not have a complete picture of the landscape and the level of support that is needed to ensure people with autism thrive is all facets of life.

To address this, in 2025, a new bill emerged titled the Autism Management Bill. This framework aims to establish a comprehensive strategy around:

• Early screening and diagnosis at both national and county referral hospitals.
• Dedicated resource allocation within health budgets to ensure affordable medical services.
• The creation of a national database to better inform policy and service delivery.

Stigma may still interrupt the process of support with some people claiming that challenges associated with the disorder are spiritual punishment or witchcraft. It is therefore important to contribute to and amplify advocates and the voices of people with lived experience who can provide more insight on contextual factors.

Another area where true inclusion is often missed or overlooked is in the areas of education and the workplace. This requires a shift in how our institutions operate. In education, curriculum and classrooms must be designed with “neuroinclusion” in mind. Teachers should be trained to identify early signs and to avoid mislabeling students’ behavior as indiscipline where there may be more at play. Organizations like Riziki Source are also supporting efforts to bridge employment gaps by holding training sessions, workshops and summits that focus on equitable access to employment, entrepreneurship support and neurodiverse-friendly communication.

By moving from awareness to action, society can dismantle the barriers of stigma and build a future where every autistic individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique talents

References:

National Council for Persons with Disabilities. (2024). Council launches first analytical report on autism and related developmental disabilities.

Ndou-Chikwena, N. N., Kurete, F., & Mugari, S. (2025). A scoping review of neurodiverse women’s representation in feminist research in Sub-Saharan Africa. EUREKA: Social and Humanities, (3), 18–28.

Ouko, F. (2025, April 29). Voices of autism: From awareness to action. Riziki Source.

Sefotho, M. (2025). The emergence of neurodiversity in education for neuroinclusion. South African Journal of Childhood Education, 15(1), Article a1775. https://doi.org/10.4102/sajce.v15i1.1775
The Senate of the Parliament of Kenya. (2025). The Autism Management Bill, 2025 (Senate Bills No. 19 of 2025).