Imagine being a child born with autism in Kenya, where resources are scarce, and support is virtually non-existent. Sadly, this is the reality for many children in Kirinyaga county and the surrounding area. With limited access to services and a lack of accurate diagnoses, these children and their families, often living in poverty, face immense challenges every day.
The Problem
Each year in Kirinyaga county, around XXXX children are born with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a condition that affects communication and behaviour. While approximately 4% of the population is thought to be autistic, stigma and a lack of support continue to prevent many from living fulfilling lives. In some cases, individuals are hidden away or even restrained, as family members lack the knowledge and resources to provide the support their loved ones need.
The Solution
Working with local Kenyans, we’re setting up Kirinyaga Autism Society, a place where autistic children can receive therapies and support initially based in a small office in Kutus town,
We then plan to build Kirinyaga Autism Centre, an innovative facility designed to support autistic children and their families in the region. This centre will provide affordable, accessible support, addressing the critical gap in autism services.
The Kirinyaga Autism Centre will offer diagnostic services, therapy for children, and essential training to empower families and caregivers.
Together, we can equip families with the tools and knowledge to support their child’s development and learning, transforming the lives of autistic children.