In Cameroon, autism is attributed to nothing other than something mysterious and paranormal. Here, people suffering from this disorder witness great social adversity and discrimination and walk with big social rejection stamps on their foreheads the same way AIDS patients do. In an attempt to create awareness.
The Parliamentary Network for the Diaspora, Decentralized and cross- border cooperation, Rep-cod, recently organized a press conference, presided by Jocelyne Ngassa, a Cameroonian from the United Kingdom, Founder and President of the Jocelyne Ngassa Foundation.
During her presentation, she revealed that her Foundation has been existing for over four years now and has been working hard to sensitize, the Cameroonian parents about the disease called autism, misinterpreted by many to be witch craft.
She further disclosed that her focus this time around is to develop and promote the talents of young children suffering with autism through artistic works. (Arts and culture).
The official launch of the activities of the foundation will take place on October 12, 2022 in Yaoundé. She used the occasion to invite the public to be part of the event, so they can learn more from this disease that has separated some families ignorantly.
Rep-cod’s President, Hon. Louis Henri Ngancha on his part praised Madam. Jocelyne Ngassa, for answering the clarion call of the Head of State, President Paul Biya for Cameroonians living abroad to come back home and be part of the development drive of their Country.
He promised that, his network will accompany the Jocelyne Ngassa Foundation in their quest of providing a better life for children suffering from autism.
He also said as Members of Parliament, they will discuss the problems of children living with this illness in the upcoming November 2022 Session of Parliament.
Present at the press conference was Hon. Saya Kiagama, bureau member of the National Assembly and member of Rep-Cod, who shared a practical story of a child living with autism in his family.
It should be noted that autism is a developmental disability, caused by differences in the brain. People with autism often have problems with social communication and interaction and restricted behaviour or interests. People suffering from autism may also have different ways of learning, moving or paying attention.
By Mboh Bryan