Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has called for strengthened autism support systems, urging a shift from awareness campaigns to structured interventions and long-term care solutions for individuals living with autism in Kenya.

Speaking after attending the Mr & Miss Autism Kenya 2026 event, Passaris highlighted the importance of inclusion and early support for children with autism. The annual event brought together children and families for a fashion showcase, storytelling sessions, and community engagement aimed at promoting acceptance and understanding.

In a post on X on Sunday, April 12, 2026, she described the event as a celebration of resilience among families and children, noting that “autism is not inability; it is uniqueness, potential, and brilliance.”

Parents shared experiences and challenges during the event, with discussions focusing on access to services, stigma reduction, and long-term care needs.

Support services and early intervention

Passaris outlined key interventions required to improve autism care, including therapy and specialised support services. She also called for the establishment of halfway homes for young adults with autism to support transition into adulthood and independent living, where possible.

She further proposed a nationwide census to guide planning and budgeting for autism-related programmes, as well as enhanced use of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) to support early identification and reduce stigma at the community level.

According to her remarks, coordinated action between national and county governments is necessary to ensure that children and families have access to timely diagnosis and support services across the country.

Legislative push and policy framework

Her remarks come as Parliament considers the Autism Management Bill, 2025 (Senate Bills No. 19 of 2025), which seeks to establish a national framework for integrated autism management.

The Bill provides for early screening, diagnosis, treatment support, and public awareness initiatives, alongside improved funding mechanisms.

The legislation was introduced in the Senate on November 26, 2025, and referred to the Standing Committee on Health for review. Public participation is currently ongoing in line with constitutional requirements, with submissions invited through the Office of the Clerk of the Senate.

If enacted, the law would formalise autism management structures, improve national data collection, and strengthen coordination of services across health and education sectors.

The proposed framework is expected to address gaps in service delivery and strengthen inclusion for individuals living with autism across Kenya.