In many Kenyan homes, the earliest signs that a child is developing differently rarely arrive with a clear explanation.

A child may not respond when called, may avoid eye contact, or may react strongly to sound or touch.

At first, these behaviours are often brushed off as shyness, stubbornness, or simply being “a late talker”.

For many families, it is only later, sometimes after months or years, that the question quietly emerges: Is it autism?

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world.

It is called a spectrum because it appears differently in every individual, with some requiring minimal support while others need more structured care.

It is not a disease, and it is not contagious, but rather a difference in brain development that shapes how information is processed.

Early confusion

Health professionals in Kenya say one of the biggest challenges is not the condition itself, but the delay in recognising it.

In both urban and rural settings, early signs are often misunderstood, especially where awareness remains limited.

A child who does not speak at the expected age may be assumed to be slow in development.

One who avoids interaction may be labelled as unfriendly or stubborn.

Repetitive behaviours such as hand flapping, spinning objects, or lining up toys may be dismissed as quirks that the child will “grow out of”.

These early misunderstandings can delay assessment and support, reducing the chances of early intervention, which is critical in improving long-term development outcomes.

Signs often missed

Clinical observations show that autism signs usually appear before the age of three.

These may include delayed speech or limited verbal communication, difficulty maintaining eye contact, sensitivity to noise, light or touch, repetitive movements, strong attachment to routines, and distress when those routines change.

In many cases, children also struggle to interpret social cues such as facial expressions or tone of voice.

At the same time, experts note that many children on the autism spectrum also show unique strengths, including strong memory in specific areas, attention to detail, and deep focus on interests.

During the first anniversary of the St Thorlak Tumaini Autism Centre in Nanyuki, Archbishop Anthony Muheria pointed to some of these observable behaviours, noting that some children may “display repetitive movements such as spinning, cover their ears in noisy environments, struggle with communication, or experience difficulties in social interaction.”

He emphasised that such signs should lead to understanding and support rather than isolation.

Causes and misconceptions

Medical research indicates that there is no single cause of autism.

Instead, it is linked to a combination of genetic and environmental factors that influence early brain development.

Some inherited traits may increase the likelihood, while certain pregnancy-related complications are also being studied.

However, health experts are clear on what does not cause autism.

It is not caused by parenting style, discipline, or vaccines, despite persistent myths in some communities that continue to fuel stigma and blame.

Barriers to support

Even when concerns are identified, many Kenyan families face significant barriers in accessing help.

Speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioural therapy, and special needs education can improve outcomes, but services are unevenly distributed across the country.

Cost, distance, and shortage of specialists often delay consistent care. For families in rural areas, reaching therapy centres can be as challenging as paying for the sessions themselves.

Archbishop Muheria highlighted this reality, noting that many parents are unsure where to seek help when they first notice developmental differences.

He urged families not to hide children, but to seek assessment early, adding that access remains a major challenge, especially where transport costs are high.

Stigma at home and school

Stigma remains one of the most persistent barriers for families raising children with autism in Kenya.

In some communities, children are excluded from learning spaces or social activities due to a misunderstanding of their behaviour.

Others are kept at home, delaying exposure to structured learning environments that could support development.

Experts warn that this stigma often slows diagnosis and reduces the effectiveness of early intervention.

According to estimates from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, about one in every 100 children in Kenya is on the autism spectrum, highlighting the need for stronger awareness and support systems.

Towards understanding

Across the country, health professionals, educators, and faith leaders are calling for greater inclusion, improved teacher training, and expanded access to therapy services.

The focus is gradually shifting from misunderstanding to acceptance, but gaps remain in both awareness and infrastructure.

Archbishop Muheria has urged society to recognise the dignity and potential of every child, stating that children with autism should not be defined by limitations but by their abilities and opportunities.

As awareness slowly grows, experts stress that early recognition remains the most important step.

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