Visionary Reports

Several activities have been organized to raise awareness on the disease.

The World Autism Day in Douala has been marked by several activities to raise awareness on the condition which in most cases has been mistakenly attributed to witchcraft. This year’s celebration was themed “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” highlighting the intersection between neurodiversity and global sustainability efforts and how inclusive policies and practices can drive positive change for autistic people worldwide and contribute to the achievement of the SDGs.During the commemoration of the day in Douala, the CAUSE association organized several activities to raise awareness about the disease/condition. On Saturday, April 5, the association made a video projection showing how parents with autistic children cope with and overcome the challenges they face. They also gave tips on how to deal with autistic children. In a round table discussion, experts and medical professionals educated the public on early detection of autism in children. How early intervention services can then be implemented to provide support and resources that can significantly improve developmental outcomes and quality of life for individuals with autism. Panelists also emphasized the need to understand and recognize the experiences and needs of individuals with autism, promote inclusion, and foster an environment in which they can thrive. According to CAUSE president Quamey Naimro, the day gave them an opportunity to help parents of autistic children understand that it is not witchcraft, but a condition that can be managed. He said it was important for people to be kind and show compassion to the weak.

For Madam Aminatou Djeuga, a mother of autistic children, it has not been an easy road but today the children can talk and there is a lot of improvement. She took the opportunity to call on other parents of autistic children to be patient and show love and compassion to this category of children because they have a lot of potential.

By GINA ESONG