The Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK), in collaboration with Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), joined the global community in commemorating World Autism Day 2025 under the theme ‘Advancing Neurodiversity’. The event aimed to champion autism awareness and inclusion across Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and Nakuru regions.
In Nairobi, the event took place at the Defence Forces Wellness Centre in Langata Garrison and was presided over by MWAK Chairperson, Mrs. Grace Kahariri, where she flagged off a processional march to raise autism awareness within the Nairobi region.
In her address, the Chairperson emphasized the significance of World Autism Day as an opportunity to educate the public, celebrate individuals with autism, and advocate for their inclusion. She stated MWAK’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that children with autism within KDF families receive the necessary care and opportunities. She highlighted ongoing initiatives, including the refurbishment and equipping of schools and hospitals to enhance services for children with special needs. She specifically mentioned the refurbishment of the Kahawa Special Needs Unit and expressed the intention to replicate similar efforts in other regions. Additionally, MWAK, in collaboration with the Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC) and the Family Group Foundation, is developing a curriculum to equip special needs children with essential life skills. MWAK also plans to establish a parent support forum to foster community engagement and shared experiences among caregivers.
The Chairperson expressed deep appreciation to partners, including the Family Group Foundation, Kingdom Bank, DEFTEC, DEFWES, KISE, and BethanyKids, for their invaluable support in achieving MWAK’s goals.
Her sentiments were echoed by the Commandant Defence Forces Wellness Centre, Col P. K. Tirop, who expressed gratitude to MWAK, KDF personnel, and partners for organizing the event. He underscored the importance of encouraging one another and creating an enabling environment for children with autism. He urged attendees to become advocates for autism acceptance and to support affected families within their communities.
Representatives from the Directorate of Medical Services (DMS) reaffirmed their commitment to advancing autism awareness and ensuring that healthcare services remain accessible, responsive, and compassionate toward neurodivergent individuals. They noted that increased awareness efforts have encouraged more KDF families to seek medical support from wellness centers across the regions. Additionally, they highlighted advancements in autism care, including the expansion of speech therapy services and the strengthening of the physical medicine department to provide occupational therapy and psychological support to care givers.
Various specialists, including healthcare practitioners, nutritionists, psychologists, KISE representatives, and caregivers, emphasized the importance of early health interventions, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring mental and social support for caregivers
Regionally, in Nakuru, celebrations were held at Lanet Barracks, where Col C. Boit, Deputy Brigade Commander of 2 Brigade, commended efforts to raise autism awareness in the region. Mrs. Maureen Kamoiro reiterated the event’s goal of celebrating the resilience of individuals with autism while fostering greater awareness. She encouraged caregivers to practice self-care and called on communities to embrace families with autism to reduce stigma and discrimination.
In Mombasa, the event took place at Kenya Navy Base Mtongwe, where Lt. Col R. Wamaitha, Officer in Charge of Physical Rehabilitation, emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for individuals on the autism spectrum within both the KDF and society at large.
The highlight of the day was the presentation of a cheque worth Ksh. 581,915 from Kingdom Bank to MWAK. The funds will be used to purchase diapers for children with special needs.
A call to action resonated across the regions, urging families and communities to reaffirm their commitment to fostering an inclusive society where every child, regardless of their abilities, is valued, supported, and celebrated. Together, we can continue to create awareness, break barriers, and ensure a brighter future for individuals with autism and their families.
The event was attended by camp leadership, uniformed personnel, MWAK members, and families.
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