By Ndey Sowe
Together for Autism Gambia (TFAG), a local organization devoted to supporting individuals with autism and their families, spearheaded a powerful awareness campaign through a match-pass dubbed “Walking for Autism Awareness” on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. The walk, held in observance of Autism Awareness Month, brought together community members, civil society organizations, NGOs, and government representatives in a collective show of support and solidarity with persons living with autism.
The procession, which began at Africell and ended at the Westfield Monument, was designed to deepen public understanding of autism and advocate for greater respect for the rights and dignity of those affected. TFAG’s mission is to foster unity, raise awareness, and promote inclusivity for people with autism throughout The Gambia.
“TFAG is committed to creating a society that not only recognises the unique needs of autistic individuals but also fosters their inclusion, acceptance, and empowerment across all sectors of society,” said Sirreh Saho, Founder and President of TFAG. “We walk for inclusion—to remind our communities that individuals on the autism spectrum deserve a place in every classroom, every workplace, and every space in society.”
She added, “We walk for acceptance, not just awareness. Because knowing the word ‘autism’ isn’t enough. We must understand it, embrace it, and celebrate the unique strengths and challenges that come with it. And we walk for action—because real change doesn’t happen by chance. It happens when people like you show up, speak up, and stand together.”
Saho underscored that each step taken during the awareness walk brings the country closer to a Gambia where no child is excluded due to a diagnosis, no parent feels alone in their journey, and every autistic individual has the support needed to reach their full potential.
Ida Badjie, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, delivered remarks on the theme of “working together for inclusion, acceptance, and action for children with autism.” She highlighted the need for inclusive educational systems, stating: “Every child deserves a space where they belong—not just to be present, but to participate, to be heard, and to be understood.”
Dr. Ndubuisi Uwaezuoke, Associate Professor and Consultant Pediatric Neurologist at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, noted that more than half of children with autism are very intelligent. “Most great people in the world are autistic,” he said, urging parents to support and nurture the unique potential of their children rather than trying to conform them to traditional norms.
Guest speaker Genevieve Senghore, Founder and CEO of Sen Dyslexia Trust Gambia, praised TFAG’s efforts. “This platform is a space where understanding, compassion, and advocacy come together to make a real difference,” she remarked.
Also sharing a heartfelt testimony was Halimatou Jawneh Cham, founder of Autism and mother of three autistic children. She reflected on her personal sacrifices, including quitting both her banking career and university studies, to focus entirely on supporting her children.
“We went through hard times at every stage of their life—from birth, moving them from school to school, all because our schools do not cater for such kids. There is no other life for me as an autism mum apart from focusing on these children,” she said.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It presents uniquely in each individual, with a wide range of strengths and challenges. While some children may face significant developmental hurdles, many lead fulfilling lives with the right support. Autism is not an illness; it simply means the brain processes information differently.
TFAG’s awareness walk was a timely reminder that with collective effort and empathy, Gambian society can become more inclusive—where all individuals, regardless of neurodiversity, are respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.
