Mulenga Autism Foundation Consultant, Henry Ndandalika, has urged government to prioritize the establishment of accessible, nationwide autism screening facilities.
Mr. Ndandalika emphasized the need to integrate autism screening into routine under-five clinics to ensure early diagnosis and intervention for children with autism.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Dr. Ndandalika expressed concern over government’s limited efforts in addressing invisible disabilities associated with autism.
He noted that autism remains largely unrecognized, particularly in the education sector, where standardized teaching methods often fail to accommodate autistic children, making learning more difficult for them.
“Autism can significantly impact an individual’s functionality, which is why investing in autism-related support systems is crucial,” said Dr. Ndandalika.
He further called on the government to create a more inclusive environment for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with other disabilities, ensuring their long-term well-being.
By Betty Kakoma
