Statement on World Autism Awareness Day and Month

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 
𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Senator John Methu (Nyandarua) today delivered a statement recognizing World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on 2nd April and called for continued observance throughout April as Autism Acceptance Month.

“This is a significant occasion for promoting understanding, inclusion and support for individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD),” Senator Methu stated.

He emphasized that autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially and experiences the world. In Kenya, children and adults living with autism continue to face systemic barriers, including stigma, discrimination, limited access to healthcare, inadequate educational opportunities and underfunded support structures.

“Families raising children with autism often bear a heavy emotional and financial burden, often without commensurate public support,” he noted.

While Kenya lacks a national autism registry, estimates from the Ministry of Health and Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) suggest that at least 1 in every 100 children in Kenya may be on the autism spectrum. With a child population exceeding 20 million, this could mean over 200,000 children are living with autism many undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The number of adults affected is likely even higher due to historical gaps in diagnosis.

Referencing this year’s theme, “Moving from Surviving to Thriving,” Senator Methu urged a shift from mere awareness to meaningful action. “It is not enough to simply recognize autism. We must build systems that empower individuals on the spectrum to live full, dignified and independent lives.”

The Senator commended the Senate for passing the Persons with Disabilities Bill which formally recognizes autism and other neurological conditions as disabilities under law, a groundbreaking step toward equity and inclusion. However, he stressed that legislation must be matched by implementation.

He called on all relevant institutions to ensure early screening, therapy and inclusive education for children with autism, adequate support services for families, both in urban and rural areas, deepened public awareness to combat stigma and isolation and increased resources for specialized medical professionals and caregivers.

“Inclusion is not charity it is justice,” Senator Methu declared. “Children and adults with autism are not asking for special treatment, but for equal opportunity to learn, grow, thrive and contribute meaningfully to society. Let this Autism Awareness Day and the entire month of April remind us of our duty to build a Kenya where all people regardless of ability or diagnosis are valued and supported.” Senator Methu stated.