Parents of children born with autism say they are affected by stigma from some community members. Many people confuse autism with evil spirits or demonic possession. As a result, they direct hurtful remarks at both the children and their families.
What Autism Really Is
Autism is a developmental condition that results from differences in brain development. Individuals with autism often face challenges in communication, behavior, and social interaction. This happens because they perceive and process the world differently from others.
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How Children with Autism Behave
Children with autism may appear to be in their own world. For example, you may call them and they seem not to respond. However, after some time, they may carry out what they were told. Some signs include restlessness, sensitivity to noise (such as covering ears), sensitivity to light, and difficulty maintaining eye contact.
Global and Local Context
Globally, statistics indicate that approximately one in every 31 children has autism. In Rwanda, no specific national study has yet been conducted. However, individuals with autism do exist in the country and need support and understanding.
Parents’ Initiative and Testimony
The President of the Rwanda Parents Initiative on Autism (RPIA), Umutoni Larissa, while speaking to parents in Karongi District, stated that the organization has already registered more than 300 parents.
She said, “It is possible that a parent here has a child like this and feels overwhelmed, as we also felt when we first discovered it. We came to change mindsets. Some people say these children are bewitched, that their parents have committed wrongdoing, or that the children are possessed by demons. That is the mindset we want to eliminate, because a child with autism, when supported, can become a valuable member of society.”
Leaders Reject Misconceptions
The Anglican Bishop in Karongi, Rukundo Methode, emphasized that autism is neither caused by demons nor evil spirits.
He stated, “Whether physical or intellectual disability, it has no connection to demons or evil spirits. Whenever people encounter a condition they do not understand, they tend to associate it with beliefs such as sacrifice rituals, demonic possession, or consult traditional healers, but that is not correct.”
He added, “When Jesus was once asked about a person born with a disability whether it was due to his own sin or his parents’. He responded that neither the individual nor the parents had sinned, but that it happened so that the works of God might be revealed through him.”
Call for Medical Care and Awareness
The Mayor of Karongi District, Muzungu Gerald, said that linking autism to witchcraft or curses comes from a lack of understanding.
He stated, “It is a condition like any other. People should go to hospitals so that those affected receive proper care, instead of damaging their well-being by claiming it is witchcraft or spiritual forces.”
April 2 is observed as World Autism Awareness Day under the theme: “Autism and Humanity Every Life Has Value.” Residents of Karongi were urged not to confuse autism with curses, evil spirits, or poisoning. Mayor Muzungu also reminded the public that anyone suspected of having autism should be taken to a medical facility rather than to traditional healers.
