The Ministry of Health has announced the commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day, celebrated annually on April 2. This year’s theme, “Advancing Neurodiversity,” emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding the unique contributions of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in society.
In a press release issued today, Dr. Samson Mndolo, the Secretary for Health, highlighted that approximately one in every 100 children is diagnosed with ASD, a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication, interaction, and behavior. The Ministry aims to raise awareness about this condition and promote acceptance across all sectors of society.
To mark the occasion, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Autism Hope Trust and other partners, will host open commemoration events on April 26, 2025, in the cities of Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu. These events aim to foster a supportive environment for autistic individuals and encourage various communities, including workplaces and schools, to acknowledge their contributions.
Dr. Mndolo urged everyone to promote acceptance and inclusion of autistic individuals in all aspects of life. “We must create supportive environments that allow every individual, regardless of their neurodevelopmental condition, to thrive,” he stated.
The Ministry of Health encourages all Malawians to participate in the upcoming events and to actively work towards advancing neurodiversity in their daily lives.
Reported By Elywin Chighali Mhango