By Shadrack Nyakoe
Nairob MCA’s have passed a motion compelling the Executive to build equipped classrooms for children with Autism.
Autism is a disorder of neurobiological origin that can have a lifelong effect on social interaction, ability to communicate ideas and feelings, imagination and establishment of relationships.
Autism is a serious, lifelong and disabling condition and without the right support, it can have a profound effect to individuals and families.
The Motion was moved by nominated MCA June Ndegwa.
She said Autistic children end up as dropouts due to un-conducive environment occasioned by lack of facilities.
“Statistics have shown that at least four-percent of our children have been diagnosed with autism. Children with this disorder tend to lose lives fast than those with pediatric diabetes or cancer. It’s time to act.” said June.
She said Kasarani constituency has the highest number of autistic children.
June added that the children are about 14,000 and recommended physicians to be diagnosing children in ECD Centers for early treatment.
She asked the County Executive to establish the classrooms in all 85 wards.
Nominated MCA representing the youth Kabiro Mbugua supported the motion.
He said the condition is a genetic disorder perpetrated by environmental influences but has no cure.
“There are measures that can be put to allow someone suffering from the disorder live a near-normal life. We will be glad if a person with the disorder will become a lawyer, engineer or any other,” Kabiro said.
Nominated MCA Jagelo Millicent supported the motion and urged the executive to establish, construct and equip special classrooms with computers and laptops for children with special needs.
Harambee Ward MCA Anthony Kimemia said it’s expensive to manage an autistic child.