Uasin Gishu County Marks World Autism Day with Call for Inclusion, Awareness, and Support

In a heartfelt event that brought together advocates, medical professionals, educators, and families, Uasin Gishu County observed World Autism Day with a powerful call for greater inclusion and awareness for individuals with autism. The gathering, led by autism advocate Linda Madegwa, focused on raising awareness about autism, dispelling misconceptions, and advocating for the integration of autistic individuals into society.

The day’s theme centered around the importance of understanding autism and fostering an inclusive environment where children and adults with autism are not left behind. “We are here today to create a platform where children and adults with autism can have a voice. Many individuals with autism are non-verbal, and it’s crucial that the community learns to understand their communication cues and provide support,” Linda Madegwa explained in her opening speech.

Madegwa emphasized the urgent need to break the stigma surrounding autism and called for a world where these individuals are included in every aspect of society. “We want to live in a world where autism is not overlooked. We don’t want to focus only on other disabilities, leaving autism aside. Everyone, whether verbal or non-verbal, should have a place in our community,” she continued.

The event also held a deeply emotional significance due to the tragic loss of Emmanuel, a 14-year-old boy with autism, who went missing in 2024. Emmanuel, who was non-verbal, had wandered off and, because he could not communicate, was unable to seek help. Tragically, his body was discovered three days later along the Sosiani River. The death of Emmanuel has become a rallying cry for many parents and caregivers, who are now determined to raise awareness about the communication challenges faced by children with autism and to ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated.

“If Emmanuel had been able to express himself or communicate in any way, perhaps someone would have been able to help him. That’s why we are here today – to ensure that people understand how to communicate with children and adults who are non-verbal,” said Madegwa.

Dr. Anne Ngeno, a senior academic from the School of Medicine, also spoke during the event, reinforcing the importance of inclusion and acceptance. “Autistic children are just like any other children. They deserve the same opportunities, respect, and access to resources to thrive. It is time for society to understand that autism should not be viewed as a barrier, but as part of the diversity that exists within our communities,” Dr. Ngeno declared.

She also highlighted the lack of awareness within many communities and schools about the needs of children with autism, calling for changes in how these individuals are treated, both socially and educationally. “We need more programs that equip people to understand autism, and more efforts to make educational systems inclusive. It’s not enough to just acknowledge the existence of autism; we need to provide the necessary support,” Dr. Ngeno emphasized.

Dr. Diana Ngeno, a medical doctor with experience in autism, provided further insights into the condition. “Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects an individual’s ability to communicate and interact with others. It often manifests through repetitive behaviors, poor social interactions, and delays in language development. Some children with autism may also have a limited understanding of facial expressions or body language,” she explained. Dr. Ngeno went on to explain that autism exists on a spectrum, meaning it can range from mild to severe, with varying degrees of communication challenges and behavioral issues.

“The key is to recognize that children with autism, despite their challenges, are capable of learning and living meaningful, independent lives with the right support. This support can come in the form of therapies, individualized education plans, and community understanding,” Dr. Ngeno added.

In Kenya, statistics show that approximately 4% of children are affected by autism, which translates to one child in every 25. Yet, despite the prevalence, many schools and institutions are still not adequately equipped to include children with autism in their classrooms. “Many children with autism are often excluded from mainstream education, and this exclusion can limit their development and opportunities. It’s essential that we change the way we approach autism in schools. These children need specialized, individualized teaching methods that cater to their unique needs,” Dr. Ngeno pointed out.

The lack of inclusion within the education system was a point echoed by Lilian Nyambura, a teacher and advocate for autism awareness. “We are here today to foster acceptance, to create an environment where autistic individuals are not only supported but truly included in the education system,” Nyambura said. “Autism is a spectrum disorder, and it involves a wide range of abilities and challenges. It’s important to remember that each child is unique, and they deserve a curriculum that accommodates their needs.”

Nyambura also called for greater government intervention in providing resources to schools and teachers, urging that more be done to ensure children with autism have access to the education they deserve. “The government needs to prioritize training teachers and creating more inclusive educational spaces where autistic children can thrive. We cannot afford to leave these children behind,” she said.

Anita Jerop Ruto, a parent trainer and advocate for families with children who have autism, also shared her experience. “I work closely with parents to train them on how to care for their children with autism,” Ruto explained. “Through education and support, we empower parents to provide the best care possible. It’s vital that parents understand their child’s needs, and it’s equally important that they have access to the right resources and support systems.”

The event also featured testimonials from several families, who shared their personal stories about living with autism and the challenges they face in their daily lives. Many spoke about the difficulty of securing educational support and the constant struggle for societal acceptance. However, there was also a message of hope and determination, as many emphasized the positive impact that awareness and education can have on changing perceptions of autism.

World Autism Day in Uasin Gishu County was not just a celebration but a powerful statement about the need for greater awareness, understanding, and inclusion. It was a day to remember the lives of those who have been affected by autism and to take a stand for the future. Through the combined efforts of advocates, educators, medical professionals, and families, Uasin Gishu County has taken a significant step toward building a more inclusive and supportive society for individuals with autism.

As the day came to a close, Linda Madegwa summed up the collective sentiment: “Our message is simple: we want the world to understand autism, to learn how to communicate with these individuals, and to create a society where everyone, regardless of ability, is respected, valued, and included.”

With this call to action, the community of Uasin Gishu County continues its journey toward a future where autism is no longer misunderstood, and individuals with autism can live fulfilling, inclusive lives.

April 05, 2025