Although autism is recognized worldwide, the amount of understanding and acceptance differs between countries and cultures. There is still a dearth of knowledge and awareness of autism in Africa, resulting in substantial stigma against persons who have the illness. Yet, with the aid of campaigning and education, autism awareness in Africa is growing.

The term "autism" was coined 70 years ago, but it has since been changed to ASD to encompass a broader range of complex deficits and difficulties in social interaction and communication. This category includes conditions such as early infantile autism, Asperger's syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder. In the past, autism was linked with mental illness, curses, or witchcraft in Kenya, leading to autistic children being isolated in their homes and young adults being admitted to psychiatric institutions.

The good news is that the situation for children with autism and their families is gradually improving. This is due to the growing awareness about the disorder, and the efforts of affected families to come together to share information and experiences.

Autism is not well understood or recognized in many parts of Africa, leading to a misdiagnosis or a lack of diagnosis. This, in turn, results in a scarcity of resources and support for families and individuals affected by autism. Such a situation can cause isolation, discrimination, neglect, as well as limited access to education, healthcare, and other critical services.

Cultural beliefs and practices further compound the problem. In some communities, autism is viewed as a curse or witchcraft, leading to the abuse or abandonment of children with autism. Moreover, individuals who are seen as different tend to be stigmatized and ostracized, making it even more difficult for those with autism.

However, despite these challenges, many organizations and individuals are striving to raise awareness and promote acceptance of autism in Africa. Such efforts are vital for improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families, as well as creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.

The Zeebah Foundation:

The Zeebah Foundation is a non-profit organization that is focused on providing resources related to Autism. The foundation operates as the corporate social responsibility arm of the Levene Energy Group. Its founder and chairman, Nzan Ogbe, who is also the CEO of the Levene Energy Group, has a personal investment in providing care and support to people living with Autism, as he has a child on the Autism spectrum. Nzan's passion and dedication towards finding solutions to the disorder have developed from his personal experience.

Image: Children who have support from The Zeebah Foundation. Source: The Zeebah Foundation | Facebook

Autism Compassion Africa:

Autism Compassion Africa is an organization that focuses on providing breakthroughs for children with autism and their communities in West Africa. They utilize evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to achieve this goal. The organization's vision is to create a social system that offers support to all children with autism in Ghana, enabling their families to thrive, and the children to achieve increased independence, leading a meaningful life as active members of their communities.

Behaviour Technicians of Autism Compassion Africa. Source: Autism Compassion Africa Website

Autism South Africa:

Autism South Africa is a strong advocate for the rights and best interests of individuals with Autism. The organization actively engages with government officials and other stakeholders to achieve its objectives. They actively lobby different government departments for improved and comprehensive service delivery, and also participate in national, regional, and local forums and associations such as the South African Disability Alliance and the Disability Rights Awareness Machinery. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that the needs and rights of individuals with Autism are recognized and met in South Africa.

The Autism Ambassadors of Ghana:

The Autism Ambassadors of Ghana is a non-governmental organization that aims to promote Autism awareness and improve the lives of children living with Autism in Ghana. Founded in June 2014 by Alice Mamaga Akosua Amoako, a digital social entrepreneur, the organization brings together professionals and volunteers who are passionate about supporting children with Autism. Their innovative approach involves using technology to achieve their goals. One of their notable achievements is the development of the "Autism Aid App," the first mobile app for children with Autism in Ghana and West Africa. The app was launched in April 2016 and is available for download on the Google Play Store and App Store globally.

Autism Ambassadors of Ghana's Autism Aid App. Source: Autism Ambassadors of Ghana Website

To tackle the difficulties encountered by people with autism in Africa, there are specific fundamental aspects that need attention. These include:

• Enhancing knowledge and comprehension of autism in communities, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

• Enhancing accessibility to diagnosis and treatment, such as early intervention and tailored services.

• Creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere in workplaces, educational institutions, and communities.

• Handling the stigmatization and bias that people with autism and their families encounter.

• Supporting research and teamwork to gain a better understanding of autism in Africa and to create interventions and support that are culturally appropriate.

Autism poses a complicated and varied challenge in Africa. While there are several obstacles that need attention, there are also opportunities for progress. Boosting knowledge and comprehension of ASD, enhancing healthcare access, and lowering the stigma associated with mental illness and disabilities can all contribute to improving the lives of those living with autism in Africa and beyond. As we observe Autism Awareness Month, we can all make a difference by advocating for acceptance and providing support to individuals with ASD.

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 Anand Subramanian is a freelance photographer and content writer based out of Tamil Nadu, India. Having a background in Engineering always made him curious about life on the other side of the spectrum. He leapt forward towards the Photography life and never looked back. Specializing in Documentary and  Portrait photography gave him an up-close and personal view into the complexities of human beings and those experiences helped him branch out from visual to words. Today he is mentoring passionate photographers and writing about the different dimensions of the art world.

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