Report Of The Committee On Autism Management Bill 2025

APPROVED

RT.HON.SEN

Clerks Chambers, Parliament Buildings, NAIROBI

AMASONN.HINGI

April, 2026

TABLEOFCONTENTS

| TABLEOFCONTENTS LISTOFABBREVIATIONS | TABLEOFCONTENTS LISTOFABBREVIATIONS | 2 | |---------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|-----| | PRELIMINARIES | PRELIMINARIES | 3 | | EstablishmentandMandateoftheCommittee | EstablishmentandMandateoftheCommittee | 3 | | CommitteeMembership | CommitteeMembership | 3 | | CHAIRPERSON'SFOREWORD | CHAIRPERSON'SFOREWORD | 4 | | CHAPTERONE | CHAPTERONE | 6 | | 1. INTRODUCTION | 1. INTRODUCTION | 6 | | 1.1. | Background | 6 | | 1.2. | TheProblem thattheBillSeekstoaddress. | 7 | | 1.3. | OverviewoftheBill | 7 | | CHAPTERTWO | CHAPTERTWO | 10 | | 2. STAKEHOLDERSUBMISSIONS | 2. STAKEHOLDERSUBMISSIONS | 10 | | CHAPTERTHREE | CHAPTERTHREE | 34 | | 3. | COMMITTEEOBSERVATIONSANDRECOMMENDATIONS | 34 | | 3.1 | Committee Observations | 34 | | 3.2 | CommitteeRecommendations | 37 | | 3.3 | CommitteeStageAmendments | 41 |

LISTOFABBREVIATIONS

ADHD

Attention-Deficit/HyperactivityDisorder

ADLS

Activities of Daily Living

APHRC

AfricanPopulation andHealthResearch Center

ASD

AutismSpectrumDisorder

BCBA

Board CertifiedBehaviorAnalyst

IEPs

IndividualizedEducationPlans

KICD

KenyaInstitute of CurriculumDevelopment

KISE

KenyaInstituteforSpecial Education

KMTC

Kenya Medical Training College

KOTA

Kenya OccupationalTherapistsAssociation

MCH

Maternaland ChildHealth

MoE

MinistryofEducation

MoH

MinistryofHealth

NCPWD

National Council forPersonswithDisabilities

NHIF

National Health InsuranceFund

NSK

NeurodivergentsSocietyofKenya

OTCK

Occupational Therapist Council ofKenya

PWDAct

PersonswithDisabilities Act,2025

SHA

SocialHealthAuthority

SHIF

Social Health InsuranceFund

SLPA

SpeechLanguagePathologistsAssociation

SNE

Special NeedsEducation

UNCRPD

UnitedNations Conventionon theRightsof PersonswithDisabilities

WHO

World HealthOrganization

PRELIMINARIES

Establishmentand Mandateof the Committee

TheStandingCommitteeonHealthisestablishedpursuanttostandingorder228(3) and theFourthScheduleoftheSenateStandingOrdersandismandated toconsider all mattersrelatingtomedicalservices,publichealthandsanitation.

Pursuant toStandingOrder228(4),theCommitteeisspecificallymandated to-

• 1)investigate,inquireinto,andreportonallmattersrelatingtothemandate, management,activities,administrationandoperationsoftheMinistryofHealth anditsdepartments;
• 2)studytheprogrammeandpolicyobjectivesoftheMinistryofHealthandits departments,andtheeffectivenessoftheimplementationthereof;
• 3)studyandreviewall legislationreferredtoit;
• 4)study,assessandanalyzethesuccessoftheMinistryofHealthanddepartments assignedtoitasmeasuredbytheresultsobtainedascomparedwiththeirstated objectives;
• 5)considertheBudgetPolicyStatementinlinewiththeCommittee'smandate;
• toapprove;
• D makereportsandrecommendationstotheSenateasoftenaspossible,including recommendationsforproposedlegislation;
• considerreportsofCommissionsandIndependentOfficessubmittedtothe Senatepursuant totheprovisionsofArticle254of theConstitution;
• 9)examineanystatementsraisedbySenatorsonamatterwithinitsmandate;and 10)followupandreportonthestatusofimplementationofresolutionwithinits mandate;and
• 11)followupandreportonthestatusofcommitmentsmadebytheCabinet SecretariesintheirresponsetoquestionsunderStandingOrder51C

Committee Membership

The Committeeiscomprisedof thefollowingmembers-

• 1.Sen.JacksonK.ArapMandago,EGH,MP

Chairperson

• 2.Sen.MariamSheikh Omar,MP

Vice-Chairperson

• 3.Sen.Justice (Rtd.) Stewart Madzayo,EGH,MP-

Member

• 4.Sen.Ledama Olekina,CBS,MP

Member

• 5.Sen.Richard Onyonka,MP

Member

• 6.Sen.Tabitha Mutinda,CBS,MP

Member

• 7.Sen.HamidaKibwana,MP

Member

Member

• 8.Sen.Joseph GithukuKamau,MP

• 9.Sen.Vincent Kiprono Cheburet Chemitei,MP-

Member

CHAIRPERSON'SFOREWORD

TheAutismManagementBill,2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025)waspublishedin the Kenya GazetteSupplementNo.163of2025on26thSeptember2025.TheBillwas introducedintheSenatebywayofFirstReadingon26thNovember,2025andthereafter stoodcommittedtotheCommitteeonHealthforconsideration.

integratedandcoordinated approach tothemanagementofautisminKenya.TheBill seekstoestablish a comprehensivelegalframeworkfor early screening,diagnosis, promotingpublic awareness,research,and theallocationofadequateresourcestowards autismprograms

InaccordancewiththeprovisionsofArticle118oftheConstitutionandstandingorder 145(5)oftheSenateStandingOrders,theCommitteethroughpublicadvertisements thatappearedintheDailyNationandStandardnewspapersthatappearedon Wednesday,3rdDecember,2025invitedtheinterestedmembersofpublictosubmitany representationsthattheymayhaveontheBillbywayofwrittenmemoranda.The memorandaweretobereceivedby theSenateonorbeforeMonday,22ndDecember, 2025at 5.00p.m.At the close of publicparticipationperiod,the Committeereceived writtenmemorandafrom thirty-five(35)differentstakeholders.Thesesubmissions andproposedamendmentswerepreparedintoacomprehensivematrixfor Committee consideration.

Duringitsconsideration,theCommitteeobserved that,theAutismManagementBill as currentlydraftedadoptsapredominantlymedicalandwelfare-orientedapproachto autism,without adequately grounding itinthe constitutionalrightsframework or Kenya'sobligationsundertheUnitedNationsConventionontheRightsofPersonswith Disabilities(UNCRPD).TheBilldoesnotexplicitlyprohibitdiscriminationagainst personswithautismineducation,healthcare,employment,oraccesstopublicservices and doesnotframe autisticpersons asrights-holders.This isinconsistentwithArticle 27andArticle54oftheConstitutionandwiththeCRPD'ssocialmodelofdisability.

The Committeeobservesthat thereisneed tohave alegal provision thatmakes ita duty ofhealthcarefacilities,educationinstitutionsandcommunityhealthpromotersto identify,refer andassistparentstoregisterchildrenwith autismwithinaspecified period afterdiagnosisandidentification.Consequently,the Committeenoted that there isneedforcriminalization ofthehabit orparentsconcealingpersonswith autism asto denythemthebenefitsprovidedunderthislaworanyotherlaw.

That theBillrecognizes only"medicalpractitioners"and doesnot mention occupational therapists,speech and language therapists,physiotherapists,clinical psychologists behavioral therapists,or specialneeds educators who are critical experts in the management of autism.This is a significantgap,as effective autism management Kenya's currentworkforce ofapproximately 9o0occupational therapistsisfar insufficient,and the Bill misses an opportunity to mandate the expansion of this workforce anditsintegrationintoautismservicedeliveryatbothnationalandcounty levels.According toAPHRCresearch data,occupational therapy(38.7%)and speech therapy(35.3%)arethemostrecommendedinterventionsforautisticchildren,yet availabilitydoesnotmeetdemandandcostisaprimarybarrier.

TheCommitteefurtherobserved thatwhiletheBill references"community-level caregiversupportgroups,"itdoesnotdefinetheroleofcaregivers,provideforcaregiver training frameworks,establish respite care services,or guarantee psychosocial or financialsupportforcaregivers.Giventheresearchevidencethatthevastmajorityof caregiver-parents experience significant mental health burden,financial stress,and social isolation,the absence ofstructuredcaregiversupportprovisionsis acriticalgap.

TheCommitteeobservedthat theBill'sfinancingprovisionsuse aspirational language without establishing specific,enforceable budget lines,ring-fenced allocations,timelinesforimplementation,orreportingobligations.TheBill doesnot mandatecoverageofevidence-basedautismtherapiesundertheSHA/SHIForrequire insuranceproviderstocover autisminterventions,diagnosticassessments,or assistive communication devices.Without such provisions,theBill'sobjectives will remain inaccessibletothemajorityofKenyanfamilieswhocannotaffordprivateautismcare.

InlightoftheCommitteeanalysisandtheextensiveviewsreceivedfromstakeholders, the Committeeis satisfied thattheAutismManagementBill,2025addressesa critical gapinthelegal andpolicyframeworkonautisminKenya.Accordingly,theCommittee recommends that the Senate approves theAutism Management Bill,2025,subject to theamendmentssetoutthisreport.

AsIconclude,IwishtosincerelythanktheOfficeoftheSpeakerand theOfficeofthe ClerkoftheSenateforthesupportextendedtotheCommitteeinexecutionofits mandate.Ialsowishtoextendmygratitudeto theCommitteemembersfortheir diligence,commitmentandinsightful contributionsthroughoutconsiderationofthis Bill.

It isnowmypleasant duty,pursuant tostandingorder148(1)of theSenateStanding Orders,topresenttheReportoftheStandingCommitteeonHealthonitsconsideration oftheAutismManagementBill,2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025).

ai

Signed

..Date.

SEN.JACKSONK.ARAPMANDAGO,EGH,MP, CHAIRPERSON,STANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH.

1.INTRODUCTION

• 1) TheAutismManagementBill,2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025)waspublished in theKenya GazetteSupplementNo.163(SenateBillsNo.19)on26hSeptember, 2025.The Bill was introduced in the Senate by way of First Reading on 26th November,2025andthereafterstoodcommittedtotheStandingCommitteeon Healthforconsideration.Acopy oftheBill theBill Digest are attached to thisreport asAnnex2and3.
• 2)Theprincipalobjectof theAutismManagementBill,2025,istoprovideforan integrated andcoordinatedapproachto themanagementofautisminKenya.The Billseekstoestablishacomprehensivelegalframeworkforearlyscreening, diagnosis,management and support ofpersons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD),whilepromotingpublicawareness,research,and the allocationof adequate resourcestowardsautismprograms.
• 3)Incompliancewith theprovisionsofArticle118of theConstitutionandStanding Order145(5)oftheSenateStandingOrders,theCommitteeproceededtoundertake public participation on theBill.In thisregard,the Committeepublished an advertisementintheDailyNationandStandardnewspaperson3rdDecember,2025 invitingmembersofthepublictosubmitwrittenmemorandatotheCommitteeon theBill.Acopyoftheadvertisementhasbeen attachedtothisreportasAnnex4.
• 4)At thecloseofpublicparticipationperiod,the Committee received written memorandafrom thirty-five(35)different stakeholders.Thesesubmissionsand proposed amendmentswerepreparedintoacomprehensivematrixforCommittee consideration.Thematrixofstakeholdersubmissionsisattachedto thisreport as Annex5.

1.1.Background

• 5)According to World Health Organization (WHO) Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) alsoreferred to asAutism refers toa diversegroupofconditions.Theyare characterizedbysomedegreeofdifficultywithsocialinteractionand communication.Other characteristics are atypical patterns of activities and behaviours,suchasdifficultywithtransitionfromoneactivitytoanother,afocus ondetailsandunusualreactionstosensations.
• 6)The abilities andneedsofautisticpeoplevary andcan evolve over time.While some peoplewithautism canliveindependently,othershave severe disabilities and employment opportunities.In addition,the demands onfamiliesproviding care and support canbe significant.Societal attitudes and thelevel ofsupportprovidedby local and national authorities are important factors determining the quality of life of people with autism.

CHAPTERONE

1.2.TheProblemthattheBillSeeks toaddress.

• 7)AccordingtotheNational CouncilforPersonswithDisability(NDPWD)Analytical MonographonAutism(2024),approximately 75millionpeopleworldwidehave autism spectrum disorder,representing 1%of the global population.TheWHO estimatesthatoneoutof59childrenarebornwithautism andrelateddevelopmental disabilities,making this a significantpublichealthconcern that requires dedicated legislativeattention.
• 8)AccordingtoareportdonebytheAutismSocietyofKenyaintheyear2007,about oneinevery25childrensufferfromautism.Thisaccountsforabout4%ofthe generalpopulationinKenya.Since there isno central data collection center for autismcasesinKenyahowever,thestatisticsarenotquite accurateandtherefore affectingthepolicyandbudgetaryissuestowardsautisminKenya.
• 9)ThechallengessurroundingmanagementofautisminKenyaincludelatediagnoses a shortageoftrainedprofessionals,limited access to specializededucation and therapeutic services,and inadequate data on autism prevalence. There is no comprehensivelegalframeworkspecificallyaddressingtheneedsofpersonswith autism,resultinginpoor service delivery andinsufficientcoordinationbetween national andcountygovernments.
• 10)Currently,persons with autism arecoveredunderthegeneralprovisionsofthe PersonsLivingwithDisabilityAct,2025(ActNo.4of2025),which providesfor therightsandprotectionofpersonslivingwithdisabilities.However,thislegislation doesnotprovidespecificprovisionsfor theuniquediagnostic,managementand supportneedsofpersonswithautismspectrumdisorder.Thelackofautism-specific legislation has resultedin inadequate specialized services,poor diagnosis,and insufficienttrainingformedicalpractitionersandcaregiversdealingwith autism.
• 11)Kenyaadopted theWorldHealthOrganization's2014globalAutismResolution titledComprehensiveand Co-ordinatedEffortsfortheManagementofAutism SpectrumDisorder,"which wasco-sponsored by50 states and supportedby all 194 WHOmembercountries.Togiveeffecttothisinternationalcommitmentand addressthegapsindomesticlegislation,thisBill seekstoestablishacomprehensive legalframeworkspecificallyfor autismmanagement.
• 12)TheBill is anchoredinArticle43(1)(a)of theConstitutionwhichguaranteesevery individual therighttothehighestattainablestandardofhealth.

1.3.OverviewoftheBill

• 13)TheBillseekstoprovidefor thecomprehensivemanagementofautism(ASD)in Kenya, covering early screening,diagnosis,treatment,support services, data collection,training,public awareness,andresource allocation at bothnational and countylevels.
• 14)Clause4mandatestheNationalGovernmentto-
• a)develop,establish,coordinate andmonitor theimplementation ofnational standardsandpoliciesrelatingtoautism;
• b) formulate andmonitoraNationalAutismStrategy that alignswithinternational bestpractices;
• establishNational DiagnosticCentersin all existingreferral hospitalsto ensure earlydetection andmanagementofautism;
• (P undertake capacitybuilding throughcontinuous trainingof medical practitionersandcaregivers;
• e) promotepublic awarenessbyundertaking continuouspublic education and sensitizationcampaignstoeradicatestigmaandfosterinclusivity;
• f) promote research and innovation andestablishlinkageswithinternational research agencies;
• g developaframeworktoincreaseaccessibilityofaffordablemedicalservices for personswith autism;
• h) in collaboration with county governments andnon-state actors,develop a national database of personswith autismfor planningpurposes;
• j) ensure thateducation andinformationon autismprevention,treatmentand managementformspartofhealthcareservices.
• i) provide technical assistance and capacity building to county governments; and
• 15)TheBillfurtherrequirestheCabinetSecretarytosetasidespecificallocationsfrom thenationalhealthbudgettosupportautismpreventionactivitiesincludingearly screening programs,diagnostic infrastructure,training,and public awareness campaigns.
• 16)Clause5mandatesCountyGovernmentsto-
• a)implementnationalstandardsandpoliciesrelatingtoautism;
• b)formulate andmonitor a county autism strategy alignedwith the national strategy that alignswith thenational strategy;
• EstablishCountyDiagnosticCentersinLevel4and5hospitalsforearly detection andmanagement ofautism;
• IP Establish community-level caregiversupportgroups;
• e establishacountydatabaseofpersonswithautismandsharethisinformation with the national governmentfor purposesofplanningand share the informationwith thenationalgovernmentfor purposesof updating the national database;and
• f)putinplacemeasures for accessibilityofaffordablemedical servicesfor personswith autismwithin countyhospitals.

EstablishmentofAutismUnits

• 18) Clause6oftheBillrequiresboththeCabinetSecretaryandeachcountyexecutive committeemembertoestablishautismunitswithintheMinistryofHealthandthe relevantcounty departmentdealingwithpublichealthmattersand to ensure diagnosticcenters arestaffedwith trainedprofessionals and appropriatediagnostic tools.

2. 19)These autismunits shall beresponsiblefor-

• a) Collectingand collating data onautism prevalenceatnational andcounty levels;

4. b)establishing and updatingnational and county databases;

• c) coordinating all autism programs including training and public awareness campaigns;and

6. d)performingotherdutiesasdirectedbytheCabinetSecretaryorcounty executivecommitteemember. 7. 20)County autism units arefurtherrequiredtoperiodically sharedatawith theNational Governmentforupdatingthenational database. 8. 21)The Bill requires the National Government and county governments,in collaborationwithstakeholders,to- 9. a)promotepublicawarenessaboutthecauses,meansofprevention,treatmentand managementofautism throughcomprehensivenationwideeducationand information campaigns;

• b) conduct education and information campaigns in schools,institutions of learning and communities throughoutKenya;

11. c)provide training,sensitization and awarenessprograms on the prevention, treatmentandmanagementofautismtomedicalpractitioners,communityand social workers,educators,and other stakeholders;

• d) ensure theinvolvementandparticipation ofindividuals andgroups affected by autismin educationandinformationprograms;and

13. e)ensure that information provided covers support,attitudes towards affected persons,andpsychologicalsupportforcaregivers.

• 22) Clause8oftheBillmandatestheKenyaInstituteofCurriculumDevelopment (KICD)toensurethatautismawarenessisintegratedinbothpre-service andinserviceteachertraininganddevelopatrainingcurriculumtobeintegratedinto syllabusesonthemanagementofautismtoensurecareofpersonswithautismis taughtatalllevelsofeducation.

15. 23)TheBill provides that in addition toits specificprovisions,persons with autism shall enjoy all therights,protection andprivilegesprovidedfor under thePersons LivingwithDisabilityAct,2025,andotherrelevantlaws

CHAPTERTWO

2.STAKEHOLDERSUBMISSIONS

• 24)ThisChapterpresentstheCommittee'sanalysisoftheAutismManagementBill, 2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025),incorporatingviews obtained throughpublic participationfrom thirty-five(35) stakeholders,includingprofessional medical bodies,civil society organizations,disability rights advocates,occupational therapists,legalpractitioners,parentsandcaregiversofpersonswithautism,autistic adults,patient advocacyorganizations,andindividual citizens.A summaryof the submissionsisprovidedbelow.

2.1.TITLEOFTHEBILL

• 25)TheKenya Occupational Therapists'Association(KOTA) submitted that the title ofthe Bill should beamended from"Autism Management Bill"to the "Neurodevelopmental ConditionsManagementBill,2025."KOTA'sjustificationis thatautism andotherneurodevelopmental conditions,includingAttention-Deficit HyperactivityDisorder(ADHD),dyslexia,dyspraxia,dyscalculia,and Tourette syndrome share commonbarriersinscreening,diagnosis,management,education, andsocial inclusion.
• 26)KOTAsubmittedthatlimitingthetitlesolelytoautismrisksmarginalizingthese relatedconditionsandmayleadtoover-diagnosisofautismwhereotherconditions arenot recognized.Thispositionwas also supported byMargie N.Koech an occupational therapist andstakeholderbythenameAlfred GicheruMazerah.
• 27)TheNeurodivergentsSocietyofKenya(NSK) andAndySpeaks4SpecialNeeds PersonsAfricasubmittedthattheBillshouldestablishamulti-sectoralnational coordinating mechanism involving Ministry ofHealth,Ministry of Education, MinistryofLabour&Employment,MinistryofSocialProtection,National Council forPersons with Disabilities,Autistic-led organizations,Caregiver associations, Kenya Occupational Therapists Association (KOTA),Occupational Therapist Council ofKenya(OTCK),Speech&LanguagePathologistsAssociation(SLPA). Balanceinvestmentsbetween education,community support,andrehabilitation.
• 28)Theyfurther proposed introduction ofmandatory inclusive-education standards at county level. NSK's justification is that current provisions assign autism managementsolely toMinistryofHealth,lacksinter-ministerialcoordination, createsfragmented,siloedservicedeliveryandfocusesheavilyondiagnostic centresinsteadofcomprehensivesupportecosystems.

2.2.DEFINITIONS(CLAUSE2)

Definitionof"Autism"

• 29)CalvinceOmondi,aSpecial EducationTeacher andPractitioner,submittedthatthe definitionofautisminClause2shouldbeexpandedtoinclude,recognitionof autism as a spectrum withvarying support needs;explicit inclusion of co-occurring conditions,notingthat70%ofautisticpeoplehavementalhealth conditions;a definition of"appropriate support"and"reasonable accommodations";use of ageinclusive language covering lifespan needs;and recognition of autism as a neurodevelopmentalratherthanpurelymedical condition.
• 30)Mr.Omondi'sjustificationisthattheBill provides aminimal definition,referencing only"autism spectrum disorder(AsD)",anddoesnotreflectlegislativeprovisions in theUK and USwhichhave comprehensive legal frameworksforASD,thus failingtoaddresscomorbiditiesthatcomplicateinterventions.
• 31)KimberlyWanjiruNjau,aParentofchildwithautism,submitted thatClause2 shouldexpandthedefinitionofautismasaneurodevelopmentalcondition andnot a diseaseormentalillness,andshouldrecognizeautismasaspectrumwithvarying supportneeds across thelifespan.Ms.Kimberlyfurthersubmitted thatdefinitions should be included for early intervention,reasonable accommodation, IndividualizedEducationPlans(IEPs),learning support or shadow teachers and behavioursupportwith appropriate safeguards.
• 32)Thejustificationis thatthecurrentdefinitionisinsufficientintheKenyancontext, where autism is frequently misunderstood,mislabeled as mental illness,or attributedtopoorparentingorsuperstition.
• 33)TheNeurodivergentsSocietyofKenya(NSK)andAndySpeaks4SpecialNeeds PersonsAfricasubmittedthatthedefinitionshouldbebroadenedtocover neurodevelopmentaldisabilitywithintheautismspectrum,includingcommon comorbidconditions.NSKproposed arights-baseddefinitionaligned toUnited NationsConventionontheRightsofPersonswithDisabilities(UNCRPD)Article 1,with additional definitions for: supports,reasonable accommodation, independent living,education support, caregiver,multidisciplinary team, habilitationandrehabilitation.NSK'sjustificationis thatthecurrentdefinition defines autism strictly as ASD,ignoringcomorbidities suchasADHD,epilepsy, intellectual disability,learningdisabilitiesanddoesnotalignwiththeUNCRPDor thePWDActdefinitionofdisability.
• 34)MichaelAmara,acounty occupational therapistfromKisumu County andthe KOTAsubmitted thatadefinitionof"occupational therapist"beadded,meaninga personwho,having successfullyundergone aprescribedcourse of trainingina traininginstitution,isaholderof acertificateissued bythatinstitutionandis registered under therelevantAct(CAP253H).Thejustification is thatoccupational therapistsareanintegralcomponentofmultidisciplinaryinterventionsin autism spectrumdisorder.

• 35)MelbaKatindi,anAdvocateoftheHigh CourtofKenya and aManagingPartnerat theKatindi&CompanyAdvocates,submitted thatthedefinitionofautismshould bereframed toread:"Autismmeansalifelongneurodevelopmentalcondition characterized by differences in social communication,sensory processing, behaviour,andcognition,whichmaymanifestacrossabroadspectrumofabilities and supportneeds andwhich shall berecognized and addressedwithin a rightsbased,person-centred andneurodiversity-affirmingframework."
• 36)Thejustificationisthatthecurrentdefinitionofautismispurelymedicalwithno recognitionof autismasa neurodevelopmental variationor rights-based perspective.

Definitionof"PersonswithAutism"

• 37)Fed Oinga Oyagi an adult with autism, submitted that"Personswith autism"should be defined to include children,adolescents and adults,whether diagnosed in childhoodoradulthood.
• 38)Thejustificationis thattheBilldoesnotexplicitlyrecognize adultswith autism, includingindividualswhowerenotdiagnosedinchildhood,weremisdiagnosedor masked symptoms due to social,cultural,or economic factors,or are only discovering theirneurodivergence laterinlife.This omission risks excluding adults from diagnostic services,support programs,datacollection,and policyplanning.

Definitions of"Caregiver"and"InclusiveEducation"

• 39)MelbaKatindi further submitted that"Caregiver"shouldbedefinedasaparent, legal guardian,family member,or any other person who provides ongoing, substantialsupport for the daily care,wellbeing,development,orinclusionofa personwith autism,and includespersons providing emotional,social,educational, istoformallyrecognize theessential roleofcaregiversin autismmanagement and support.
• 40)Melba Katindi further proposed that"Inclusive Education"be defined as an educationsystem,philosophy,andpracticethatensuresequalaccess,participation, andachievement for all learners,including learners with autism,through the provision of reasonable accommodation,individualized support,accessible learning environments,andappropriateteachingmethodologies,withinmainstream educational settings.Thejustificationis to ensurea comprehensiveunderstanding ofinclusiveeducationthatsupportsall autisticlearners.

Definitionof"Neurodevelopmental Conditions"

• 41)AlfredGicheruMazerah,aConcernedKenyanwithlivedexperienceof neurodevelopmentaldisability,submittedthatanewdefinitionunderClause2be insertedtoinclude"neurodevelopmentalconditions"asencompassingAttentionDeficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD),specificlearning disorders(including

dyslexiaand dyscalculia),developmental coordinationdisorder (dyspraxia), Tourette syndrome,and such otherconditions asmaybe classified underICD-11 oritssuccessor.

• 42)ThejustificationisthatthisanchortheActininternationallyrecognizeddiagnostic classification systemsand avoidsrepeatedlegislative amendmentsas science evolves.
• 43)AlfredGicheruMazerahalsoproposedinsertionofanewinterpretiveclause immediatelyafterClause1toread:"ThisActshallbeinterpreted andappliedina mannerconsistentwiththeConstitutionofKenyaandKenya'sobligationsunder theUnitedNationsConventionontheRightsofPersonswithDisabilities,including the principles ofdignity,non-discrimination,autonomy,equalityofopportunity, accessibility,andfull andeffective participationinsociety."Thejustificationis that CRPD-compliantinterpretationclausesarestandardinmoderndisabilitylegislation

MultidisciplinaryProfessional Definitions

• 44)MargaretThongorisubmittedthat thedefinitionprovisions shouldbeexpanded to explicitlyincludealllicensedprofessionalsinvolvedinmultidisciplinaryautism management, including: Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists,Clinical Psychologists,Counselling Psychologists,Psychiatrists, PaediatricNeurologists, Special Needs Educators,and Behaviour analysts/therapists.The justification is that the current restrictive definition excludes crucialprofessionals whoform thebackboneofautismassessment, therapy,andlong-termmanagement.

OBJECTSOFTHEBILL(CLAUSE3)

Removal of "Prevention of Autism" Language

• 45)TheNeurodivergentsSocietyofKenya(NSK) andAndySpeaks 4Special Needs PersonsAfrica submitted that"preventionofautism"languageshouldberemoved entirelyfromtheBill andthattheobjectivesshouldbeexpandedtocoverinclusive education,habilitation and rehabilitation services,community-based support, andpublicaccessibility and accommodations.NSK'sjustificationisthatthecurrent provisions are focused almost entirely on screening,diagnosis,and medical management.Including"preventionofautism"languageisscientificallyinaccurate anddiscriminatory.
• 46)AfricanPopulationandHealthResearchCenter(APHRC)submitted thatthe objectivestatementshouldberevisedtoexcludeprevention.APHRCnotedthat autism isaneurodevelopmentaldisabilityrather than a diseaseor illness,and researchevidenceshowsthatASD presentsdifficultiesinsocial communication/interaction and restrictive and repetitivebehaviour patterns.

APHRCfurther submittedthatsensitization,awarenessandtrainingprograms should focus on theprovision of care and support services including therapy and educationservices.

• 47)SanaipeiNtimama,a Co-FounderKalelABAProgramandaMotherof8-year-old withASD,submitted that,intermsoflanguage,theBill shouldnotethat thereare noknown causesofautismand thereisnomedicalmeansofpreventionofthe condition.Shesubmittedthat theBillshouldavoidusinglanguageabout prevention'ofautismasthisisscientificallyinaccurate.
• 48)Samwel MainaWangari,aparentofautisticchildfromKiambu County,submitted thatreferencesto'preventionofautism'shouldberemovedandreplacedwith language that focuses on early identification, support, inclusion, and accommodation.Thejustificationis thatautism isnotadiseaseandcannot be prevented.Usingthis language increasesstigma andmayharm autistic children and theirfamiliesandcouldlead tobadpoliciesanddirectivesthatdonotprotectthe childortheparents.

ExpansionofObjectivestoIncludeRights-BasedFramework

• 49)MelbaKatindisubmittedthattheobjectsoftheBillshouldbereframedtoadopta rights-based,neurodiversity-affirming approach,proposing that the objects read: The objectsof thisAct aretopromote thedignity,autonomy,andsocialinclusion ofpersons with autism;ensure access to coordinated screening,diagnostic, therapeutic,educational,and support services;prevent exclusion and rights violations; and support caregivers,community participation,and lifelong inclusion."Thejustificationistoclarifythatthepurposeisnot prevention ofautism, butpreventionofexclusion,neglect,andrightsviolations.
• 50)Dr.AnnKioi,a HealthcareProfessional,Author and Mother oftwoautistic children,submittedthatSection3shouldbeexpandedtoexpresslyincludelongterm,multidisciplinary intervention and caregiver support as core objectivesof the Act.Thejustificationisthat autismmanagementdoesnotend atdiagnosis.Families experiencethegreateststraininthemonthsandyearsthatfollow,whenstructured interventionandguidanceareabsent.

AmendmenttoClause3(a)-InclusionofLateDiagnosis

• 51)Fed OingaOyagisubmitted that Clause3(a) should beamended toread:"..provide aframeworkforintegratedapproachtowardstheearlyandlatescreening. thatwhileearly screeningis essential,repeatedemphasison earlydetectionwithout correspondingprovisionsforlatediagnosiscreatesastructuralbiasagainstadults. Autismisalifelongneurodevelopmentalcondition,anddiagnosisatanystageof liferemainsclinicallyvalid andbeneficial.

• 52)AlfredGicheruMazerahsubmittedthatClause3(a)shouldbeamendedbyinserting after"personswith autism"the words:"and torecogniseandprovideapolicy pathway for addressing related neurodevelopmental conditions,including Attention-Deficit/HyperactivityDisorder(ADHD),specificlearning gdisorders (including dyslexia and dyscalculia),developmental coordination disorder (dyspraxia),and Tourette syndrome."The justification is that international experiencedemonstratesthatautismpolicyismosteffectivewhensituatedwithin a broaderneurodevelopmental andrights-basedframework.

Amendment to Clause3(d)—Expansionof TrainingScope

• 53)APHRC submitted that theobjectivein Clause3(d)shouldberevised toinclude teachers andparents as additional groups toundergocontinuous traininginaddition tomedical practitioners and caregivers.The justificationis that children andyouth with autismspendmostoftheir timeeitherathomeorinschool,therefore thereis aneedtobuildcapacityofteachersandparentsincareandsupportserviceswithin these contexts.APHRC's own study shows skillsgaps and a needfor trained teachersandempoweredparents.
• 54)MichaelAmarasubmittedthat Clause3(d)shouldbeamendedtoread:"providefor continuous training for medical practitioners, Occupational Therapists and caregiversinrelation toautism."Thejustificationis thatoccupationaltherapists playa criticalrolein autismmanagement and should beincluded in training provisions.

2.3.FUNCTIONSOFTHENATIONALGOVERNMENT(CLAUSE4)

MinimumAutismServicePackage

• 55)Dr.AnnKioisubmittedthatanewsubsectionshouldbeinsertedunderSection4to mandatetheCabinetSecretaryresponsibleforhealthtodevelopandgazettea Minimum AutismService Packageincluding:screeningandd diagnosis; multidisciplinary intervention services; caregiver training and psychosocial support;and education support linkages.The justification is that in the absence of nationalstandards,services remain fragmented,inconsistent,and dependenton geography or income.Familiesarelefttofigure things out'on their own,often at great emotional andfinancialcost.

MultidisciplinaryCoordinatingMechanism

• 56)TheCoalitionofParents,Caregivers,Professionals,DisabilityRightsAdvocates andPersonswith LivedExperienceonNeurodivergencesubmitted thata multidisciplinary,representativenational teamshouldbeexplicitlyprovidedforin theBill,comprisingdevelopmentalpediatricians,neurologists,behaviouralexperts, speech and occupational therapists,educators,parents,self-advocates,disability rightsadvocates,andprofessionalswithlivedexperience.

• 57)TheCoalitionfurther submitted thatformulation of theNationalAutismStrategy shouldbeledbyprofessionalswithexperienceinpopulationhealthand internationalbestpractice,butwhoaregroundedinKenya'scultural,institutional, andresourcerealities.
• 58)TheNeurodivergentsSocietyofKenya(NSK)submitted thatamulti-sectoral nationalcoordinatingmechanismshouldbeestablishedinvolvingtheMinistryof Health,MinistryofEducation,MinistryofLabourandEmployment,Ministryof Social Protection,NationalCouncil for PersonswithDisabilities,Autistic-led organizations,Caregiverassociations,Kenya Occupational TherapistsAssociation (KOTA),Occupational Therapist CouncilofKenya(OTCK),andSpeech and Language Pathologists Association (SLPA).NSK submitted that investments should bebalanced between diagnostics,education,community support,and re/habilitation,withmandatoryinclusive-educationstandards atcountylevel.

NationalAutismStrategy-TimelinesandAccountability

• 59)MelbaKatindisubmittedthattheCabinetSecretaryshouldbemandatedtodevelop national autism service standards(screening,therapy,education support) and publishaNationalAutismStrategywithin180daysofenactment,withring-fenced fundingsubject to annualreportingtoParliament.Thejustificationisthatwithout enforceablenationalstandards,thereisariskoffragmentedservices,inconsistent qualityofcare,andlongdelays,leavingcaregiverstobeartheburdenofnavigating complexsystemsalone.
• 60)Alfred GicheruMazerahsubmittedthat Clause4(1)(b)shouldbesubstitutedwitha provisionrequiring theCabinetSecretarytoformulateandmonitoraNational Autism Strategy anda complementaryNational Neurodevelopmental Conditions Strategy addressing autism,ADHD,specificlearning disorders,developmental coordination disorder,andTourette syndrome,in alignmentwithinternational best practices.The justificationis thatinternational practice (CRPD,WHO) encourages neurodevelopmentalpopulations.
• 61)AlfredGicheruMazerahalsosubmittedthatanewsub-clauseshouldbeinserted under Clause 4 and Clause5requiring the CabinetSecretary and CountyExecutive CommitteeMember totableanannualreportbeforeParliamentortheCounty Assemblyrespectively,detailingallocations,expenditures,andoutcomesunderthe Act.The justification is that international best practice requires monitoring, evaluation,andreporting toensure accountability and effectiveuse ofpublicfunds.

Diagnosticand TherapyStandardsforNational Centres

• 62)FedOingaOyagisubmittedthatnationaldiagnosticcentresshouldprovideautism screeninganddiagnosticservicesforadults,includinglate-diagnosedindividuals. Thejustification is that theBill assumes diagnosis occurs exclusively through publichealthscreeningpathwaysandassumesautismtobeachildhoodcondition,

withmostprovisionsimplicitlyorientedtowardearlychildhoodintervention.This createsarisk ofinconsistent diagnoses across counties anddismissal of adultcases duetolackofcliniciantrainingorstandardization.

AmendmenttoClause4(1)(i)-LanguageCorrection

• 63)ChristopherMutungaandAnyesNyaga,Parentsofchildwith autism,submitted "detection and management."The proposed wording ensures that education and informationdisseminationonthedetectionandmanagementofautismandthecare ofpersonswithautismshallformpartofhealthcareservicesbyhealthcare providers.Thejustification is that the section assumes that autism is a disease that canbepreventedandtreatedwhichisnottruesincenoonecanpredictwhethera childwillbebornwithASD

AmendmenttoClause4(2)-DeploymentofOccupationalTherapistsinSchools

• 64)ConstanzaWairimuMuriuki,aparentand caretakerofchildwithautism,submitted thatoccupational therapistsandcaretakersshouldbedeployedinpubliclearning institutionstolifttheburdenofoccupational therapychargeswhichispartofthe learningprocess.Shefurther submitted that caretakerswhohelp learners with activitiesofdailyliving(ADLs)whileatschoolshouldbedeployed,andthatthe CabinetSecretary,MinistryofEducation,shouldbeactivelyinvolvedinbudget allocationforupgradingandmaintenance ofAutismunitsinpublicschoolsand to ensurespecialneedsteachersarewellplaced.Thejustificationisgroundedinthe PersonswithDisabilitiesAct2025PartIIl,Section20(6),whichstatesthatchildren withdisabilitiesshallnotbeexcludedfromfreeandcompulsoryearlychildhood, primaryorsecondaryeducation.

Amendment toClause 4(d)—InclusionofOccupational TherapistsinCapacity Building

• 65)MichaelAmarasubmittedthattheresponsibilitiesofthenationalgovernment shouldinclude"undertakecapacitybuilding forvarious stakeholders including continuous training of medical practitioners,Occupational Therapists and caregivers."Thejustificationisthat capacitybuildingfor occupational therapistsis essential forquality autismmanagement services.

AmendmenttoClause4(g)—Inclusion ofTherapyServices

• 66)APHRCsubmittedthatClause4(g)shouldberevisedtoincludetherapyservicesin addition tomedicalservices.Thejustificationisthattherapyserviceprovisionis an importantaspectoftheachievementofdevelopmentalmilestonesforchildrenwith autism.APHRC's study shows occupationaltherapy(38.7%) andspeech therapy (35.3%)arethemostrecommendedbutavailabilitydoesnotmatchdemand.Parents cited highcost asthemain challengelimiting access.

2.4.FUNCTIONSOFCOUNTYGOVERNMENTS(CLAUSE5)

• 67)Dr.AnnKioisubmittedthatSection5shouldbeexpandedtorequirecounty governmentstoensureaccesstomultidisciplinaryinterventionservicesdirectlyor through accreditedprovidersand to assign each diagnosedchild anindividualized care and interventionplan,coordinated through the county autism unit.The justificationisthatcountiesarerequired to diagnosebutarenotclearlyobligated to ensure post-diagnosis intervention andfollow-up.Diagnosis withoutan interventionpathwayleavesfamilydistressedanddirectionless.
• 68)The Coalition ofParents, Caregivers,Professionals,Disability Rights Advocates andPersonswithLivedExperienceonNeurodivergencesubmitted that Clause5 shouldplacesignificantresponsibility oncountygovernmentswith clearguidance and support,including developingaligned county autism strategies,communitylevel caregiversupport groups,anddecentralized servicesto addressrural and lowincomeinequities.
• 69)MelbaKatindisubmittedthatminimumservicerequirementsshouldbeintroduced for counties,requiring counties tointegrate autismservicesintoCountyIntegrated DevelopmentPlans.The justificationis thatmostfamiliescannot access countylevel services due tolackof trainedpersonnel,facilities,or adequate funding, forcingrelianceoncostlyprivatecareortotal exclusion.
• 70) Fed Oinga Oyagi submitted that county diagnostic centres shall offer autism diagnosticservicesforbothchildrenand adults,andestablishreferralpathwaysfor adult assessments.Thejustificationis that theBill assumes autism tobe a childhood condition,with most provisionsimplicitly oriented toward early childhood intervention.

AmendmenttoClause5(1)(f)—NutritionalInterventions

• emphasizeaffordablesupplementsandautism-friendlydiettoparents/caregiversto supporttheirdietmonitoringtoenableautismindividualstoavoidhyperactivity triggering diets,and that theclauseshouldnotbelimited togeneral medical services butspecificallyaddressnutritional anddietaryinterventions.Thejustificationis that theclauseis ambiguous sinceit does not specifywhether the affordablemedical services areforwhich ailments,since autismis a spectrumnot a disease.
• 72)Dr.AnnKioisubmitted thatClause5(1)(f)shouldbefurtherstrengthened toensure includinggovernment subsidies or other forms of support to alleviate thefinancial burden onfamiliescaringfor autisticchildren.Thejustificationisthatmany autistic children require ongoing medication, such as Risperidone,Concerta, Epilim, Lamictal,which areextremelyexpensive and oftenunaffordableformanyfamilies.

AmendmenttoClause5(2)-BudgetAllocation

• 73) ChristopherMutungaandAnyesNyagasubmittedthattheCountyExecutive CommitteeMembershouldsetasidespecificallocationfrom thecountyhealth budget to support autism activitiesincluding early screeningprograms,diagnostic infrastructure,supplyofautism dietrelatedsupplements,trainingofprofessionals and caregivers,and public awareness campaigns.Thejustification is that nutritional allocations.

2.5.AUTISMUNITS(CLAUSE6)

• 74)TheNeurodivergentsSocietyofKenya(NSK)submitted thatAutismUnitsshould be redesigned asMultidisciplinary Support and Resource Centres,notmedical units.NSK proposed that occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy,behavioural support,psychosocial services,and caregivertraining should bemandatedforinclusion.Thejustificationisthat unitsarecurrentlylocated onlywithinhealthdepartments,reinforcingamedicalmodel,withnomentionof multidisciplinary teams and no reference to rehabilitation frameworks or community-basedprogrammes.
• 75)HannahRiseAutistic Community-Based Organization submitted that there should bestage-basedpathwaycurriculumin allearlychildhoodlearningcentres tailored tochildrenwith autism spectrumdisorder(individualizededucationalplans).The justificationisthateverychildwithautismisuniquewiththeirownstrengths, challenges and learning styles,and anindividualized education plan ensures that educationalprogrammingistailoredtomeetthespecificneedofeachstudent.
• 76)APHRCsubmitted thatanewclause6(2)(e)shouldbeaddedtoprovidethat"the autism unit shall act as a respite centre for parents and caregivers."The justification is that since ASDpresents in a diverserange ofways,caring for children with autismmaybechallengingduetotheirbroadspectrumofneeds.APHRCresearch shows that amajority(94.9%)ofparentsneedpsychosocialsupport.Theyreport caring fora child with autism is costly (21%),stressful (20%),emotionally challenging (17%), and physically exhausting (15%).
• 77)Alfred GicheruMazerahsubmitted thatClause6(2)(c)shouldbeamendedtoread: "co-ordinating all autism andrelatedneurodevelopmental programsin the areaof operation,including training,research,and public awareness campaigns."The justificationisthatthisimprovesefficiencybyleveragingthesameinfrastructure tosupportcloselyrelatedneurodevelopmentalconditions,consistentwithWHO recommendationsonintegratedservicedelivery.

AutismManagement Centres

• 78)MargaretThongori submitted that"DiagnosticCentres"should bereplacedwith comprehensive"AutismManagement Centres"(AMCs),whichmustprovide:early screening and diagnosis,intervention therapies,parent/caregiver training,

counselling and psychosocial support, school transition support, assistive technology services,andvocationalpreparation.The justification is that autism requires lifelong support—not only diagnosis.Limiting these facilities to diagnosticsminimizes thebroaderneedsof autisticpersons and theirfamilies.

• 79)MargaretThongori furthersubmittedthatenforceablecomplianceclauses, timelines,andsanctionsforfailuretooperationalize autismmanagementcentres, autismunits,and datasystemsshouldbeincluded.Thejustification is that theBill assigns dutiestonational and countygovernmentswithoutspecifyingdeadlines, penalties,orperformance audits,creatinga riskofnon-implementation.

2.6.EDUCATIONANDINFORMATION(CLAUSE7)

• 80)AlfredGicheruMazerahsubmittedthatClause7(4)shouldbeamended toread: "ensurethemeaningfulinvolvementandparticipationofindividualsandgroups affectedbyautismandotherneurodevelopmental conditions,ortheircaregivers,in the education and informationprograms."The justification is toalignwith CRPD Article4(3):participation ofpersonswithdisabilitiesin decision-making('nothing aboutuswithoutus).
• 81)ChristopherMutungaandAnyesNyagasubmitted thatClause7(3)shouldprovide sponsored training,sensitization and awarenessprogrammeson thedetection and managementofautismtoother stakeholdersinvolvedinthedisseminationof informationtothepubliconautismdetection andmanagement.Thejustificationis thatawarenessprogramsneed toaddress thebroader communityandmultiple stakeholders.
• 82)APHRCsubmittedthatsensitization,awareness andtrainingprogramsshouldfocus ontheprovisionofcareandsupportservicesincluding therapyandeducation services.Thejustificationisthatautismisaneurodevelopmentaldisabilityrather than a disease or illness,and that awareness programs should be focused accordingly.
• 83)MichaelAmarasubmittedthatoccupational therapistsshouldbeaddedtothelistof groups toreceivetraining,sensitizationand awarenessprogramson the detection andmanagementofautism.Thejustificationis thatoccupational therapistsneed specifictrainingandrecognitioninautismdetection andmanagement.
• 84)Dr.AnnKioisubmittedthatSection7shouldbeamendedtorequireinclusionof caregiversandpersonswithautismin awarenessinitiativesand tolinkawareness seeking.Thejustificationisthatawarenessactivitiesarenotrequiredtoinclude caregiversorpersonswithlived experience,norareoutcomesdefined.Stigmais a majorbarriertocareandsocialinclusion.

2.7.KENYAINSTITUTEOFCURRICULUMDEVELOPMENT/ EDUCATION(CLAUSE8)

• 85)The CoalitionofParents,Caregivers,Professionals,DisabilityRightsAdvocates andPersonswithLivedExperience onNeurodivergence submitted that theBill shouldnotbelimitedtochildhoodandschool-ageinterventionsbutmustexplicitly provideforlifelongsupport,includingvocationaltraining,supportedemployment, independent and assisted living options,ageing-related care,and long-term rehabilitationservices.Thejustificationis thatearlyintervention isnotonly investmentforfamilies,communities,and theState.
• 86)Dr.AnnKioisubmittedthattheBill shouldincludeprovisionsforspecialeducation and training for autistic children,tailored to their unique needs and abilities.She furthersubmittedthattheBillshouldmakeprovisionsforspecialexamination arrangementsforautisticchildren,includingoralexaminationsas an alternativeto traditionalwrittenassessmentsfor autisticlearnerswhodemonstratesignificant difficultieswithwritten assessments.Thejustificationisthattraditionalwritten examsdisproportionatelydisadvantageautisticlearnerswhohavehighcognitive abilities but struggle with handwriting,processing written text,or time-bound testing.
• 87)HannahRiseAutisticCommunity-Based Organizationsubmitted thatautism spectrum disorder specific provisions should have a clauseunder thePersonsLiving withDisability Act2025ofKenya,justlikeother disabilities enjoy singular recognition withoutbeing generalized,to ensure autism-specific provisions are complementarywithexistingdisabilitylegislationandgivenappropriate recognition.
• 88)AlfredGicheruMazerahsubmitted thatClause8(1)(a)shouldbeamendedtoread: "ensure that autism and otherneurodevelopmental conditions awareness,including ADHD,specific learning disorders,developmental coordination disorder (dyspraxia),andTourettesyndrome,isintegratedinbothpre-serviceandin-service training."Thejustificationisthat international education standards emphasise inclusive education addressing diverse learning and developmentalneeds,not single-conditionawareness.
• 89)Dr.AnnKioisubmittedthatSection8shouldbeexpandedtorequiredevelopment andimplementationofIndividualizedEducationPlans(IEPs)forlearnerswith autism.Thejustificationis thattheBilldoesnotimposeobligationsonschools to implementindividualizedsupportsforlearnerswithautism.

MandatoryIndividualizedEducationPlansandSchool Inclusion

• 90)KimberlyWanjiruNjausubmittedthattheBill shouldexplicitlyprovidefor mandatory Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for learners with autism; reasonable accommodations in all learning institutions;regulation of learning

support/shadow teachers including qualifications,safeguarding,and clarity on paymentresponsibility;and a formal complaints and escalationmechanism for parentswhen schoolsfail to comply.Thejustification is that theBill doesnot imposeenforceableobligationsonschools toinclude andsupportlearnerswith autism.Inpractice,parents areforced toprivatelyfund learningsupport or accept exclusion.

• 91)AlbertWanjeri,Rights-BasedAdvocate,submitted thatIEPsshouldberequiredfor autisticlearnersinpublicschools;thatpre-service and in-serviceteacher training onautismshouldbemandated;thattheBasicEducationActshouldbealignedwith theseprovisions;and thatreasonableclassroom accommodations including sensory supportsandflexibleassessmentsshouldbeprovided.Hefurthersubmitted that CareUnitsinschoolsshouldbeestablishedwithatleast10schoolspercounty staffedby trained caregivers orspecialists,withminimum county servicestandards to ensure equitableaccessregardless of location.
• 92)BeatriceNamunyakJohn(HealthEconomicsandPolicy,Caregiver and Autism Advocate)submittedthattheBill shouldincludepracticalguidelinesforinclusive education,teacher training on individualized learning approaches,and clear pathwaysforschool acceptanceofautisticchildren,regardlessofdevelopmental milestonesliketoileting.Thejustificationisthatcurrenteducational practices often presentbarriersincluding schoolultimatums andstigmathatpreventautistic childrenfrombeingadmitted.

Teacher-StudentRatiosandStructured Learning

• 93)Pauline Wamukowa,a Director,Mali Therapy Center for Kids with Autism, submitted thateveryestablishedlearningsupportforchildrenon the spectrum withinpublicandprivateschoolsshouldbestaffedbyaSpecialNeedsEducation (SNE) teacherwhopossessescross-disciplinarycompetenciesin everygradefrom pre-primary to Grade 9.Learning support departments should be equippedwith a speech therapist,occupational therapists,andBCBA trained therapists such that morninglessonscontinueseamlesslyfollowedby therapyintheafternoon.She submittedthattheBillshouldspecifyamaximumratioof7pupilsperteacher within an autismunittoensurethat theeducatorcanmanage thediversesensory andbehaviouralneedsofeachlearnereffectively.
• 94)Betty JeanNyambura,aDirector,St Albans Autism Centre,submitted that the trainer-studentratioshould beone-on-one,and that three students should be handledbyateacher,a therapist,and a caregiver.She submitted that the training hoursshouldbe8am to4pmMondaytoFridaywithstructuredactivitieswith parentsovertheweekend,and thatchildrenaged3-5yearsshouldbeina centre occupational therapy)plus education running concurrently.Betty Jean further submittedthattoilettrainingshouldbeamandatorypartofthetrainingandthatin 24monthsof trainingthechild shouldhave completedpre-primary education and bereadyforintegrationtoregularschool.

TeacherTrainingandDigitalTools

• 95)NyagaAlexMuthuma,FounderGrowBrightApp,submitted that teacher training institutions shouldintroducecompulsory foundationalspecialneedseducation units,noting thatno teacher should enter aclassroom unprepared to support all learners.Hefurther submitted that Parliamentandrelevantministries should support inclusive education reforms,integrate assistive digital tools into classrooms,andexplorefundingpathwaysforinnovationslike GrowBrightthat addressgapsin teacher competence and learner communication.Thejustification is thatmanyregular teachers arenotequippedwithfoundational skillsneededto supportlearnerswithdisabilities.
• 96)APHRCsubmitted thatanewclause8(2)(a) shouldbe addedtoread:"TheMinistry ofEducation shallensure thelearninginstitutionsarewell resourced(both infrastructural,teachingandlearningresourcesand trainedpersonnel) to support the educational and learning needs of learners and trainees with autism."The justificationisthatAPHRC'sstudyshowsthehighcostofeducationwasthemost cited challengebyparents of childrenwith autism,with most parentsciting being requiredtopayextrafeesandcostsrelated toexpensiveresources and shadow teachers,aswell as a shortage of trained teachers.

2.8.TRAINING,PROFESSIONALSTANDARDSANDWORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

• 97)Sanaipei Ntimama,Co-FounderKalelABA Program,Mother of 8-year-oldwith ASD,submitted thattrainingshouldbemandatoryforallofficersoftheState Department for Children Services,Kenya Police Force,State Department for Correctional Services,and all Medical Personnel (Doctors,Dentists,Nurses) so theyknowhowtomanageachildwithASDwhentheyreporttoamedical institution.ThejustificationisthattheBillneeds toexpandtherangeof professionals and service providerswhoneed training in autism recognition and management.
• 98)TheOccupationalTherapists,KUTTRHsubmittedthatoccupational therapymust beexplicitlyrecognizedasanessential,standalonecomponentofscreening,early intervention,treatment,and long-term support for persons with Autism.They submittedthattheBill shouldmandaterapidonboardingofoccupational therapyas adegreecoursein allmajoruniversitiesinKenya,fromundergraduatelevelsto masters andPhD level,with ongoing trainingwhile in service.The justification is thatthecurrentnumberofhiredoccupational therapistsis9oo,whichisextremely lowtosupportthemanagementofthisclassofpatients.
• 99)MargaretThongorisubmitted thattheBillshouldincludeastatutoryrequirement forKMTCtodevelopspecializedhigherdiploma-levelautism trainingprograms specifically for Occupational Therapists,Speech and Language Therapists,and Communityhealth workers,including:autism assessmentframeworks,behavioural interventiontechniques,sensoryintegrationtherapy,communicationintervention

skills,family-centred autism care,and assistivetechnologyuse.Thejustificationis thatKMTCtrainsthemajorityofhealthworkersandshouldbemandatedtodevelop specialized autismprogramstoincrease thenationalworkforcecompetentin autism management.

• 100)The Occupational Therapists,KUTTRH further submitted thattheBill should provideforadoptionofinternationally accepted,nationallystandardized,evidencebasedscreeningandassessmenttoolswithoccupational therapistsatthecentreof thediagnosticprocessandensuretrainingofpublichealthworkersonproper screeningandreferralpathways.Theyalsoproposed thatthegovernmentsetup fullyequippedandstaffedsensoryintegrationunitswithinoccupational therapy departments.Thejustificationisthatstandardizedtoolsensurequalityand

2.9.HEALTHINSURANCECOVERAGEANDFINANCING

• 101)CalvinceOmondi(SpecialEducationTeacherandPractitioner)submitted thata newsection on"Health Insurance Coverage"should beadded to:require all health insuranceproviders to coverautism screening,diagnosis,and treatment;mandate coverageforevidence-basedinterventionsincludingbehavioural therapy,speech therapy,occupational therapy,andpsychologicalservices;prohibitdiscrimination or coverage denial based onpre-existing autism diagnosis;and setminimum coveragelevelsforinstanceKsh500,000-1,000,000annuallyfortherapeutic services.The justification is that in comparison toUS legislationwhich dramaticallyimproved access toservices throughinsurancemandates,Kenya's Billneedssimilarprovisionstoensureaffordability.
• 102)SanaipeiNtimamasubmittedthatfamiliesneedtobeabletoaccessinsurance policiesthatcancushionthecostoftherapies,andthattaxexemptionshould be consideredfor theimportationofassistivedevices andmaterials.She also submittedthataccesstoservicesunderSHA/SHIFshouldbeexploredandthat inclusionofspecialisedtreatmentssuchasStemCellTherapiesinmedical insurancepoliciesforthosewhowouldliketotaketheirchildrenabroadforsuch treatmentsshouldbeconsidered.Thejustificationis thateachchildneedsspeech and language therapy,occupationaltherapy,physical therapy,hearing tests, medical and therapeuticassessments,andspecialdietaryrequirements,none of whicharecoveredbymedicalinsurance andservicesareonlyavailabletothefew whocanaffordprivateclasses.
• 103)KOTA submitted thatSHAandinsurancecoverage should berequiredfor neurodevelopmentalconditionservices.ThejustificationisthattheSocialHealth conditionservicesacrossoutpatient,npatient,andschool-basedsettingstoensure financial accessibility.

• 104)The OccupationalTherapists,KUTTRHsubmitted thatwhile theBill already proposesallocation ofresourcesforAutismprograms,it shouldfurtherrequire dedicatedfundingforoccupationaltherapyservicesandcomplementaryservices like speech therapyand behaviour modification therapy in government institutions.Moreover,insurancecompaniesshouldbemandated tocoversuch serviceswhichareoften excluded.Thejustification is that occupational therapy andrelatedservices areessentialbutoften excludedfrominsurance coverage, creatingfinancialbarriersforfamilies.
• 105)MargaretThongorisubmitted thataNationalAutismFundshouldbecreatedto ensurepredictable,protectedfinancingforautismmanagementcentres,training, andcompellingmedicalinsurancefirmstocoverautisminterventions,awareness, andcommunitysupport.Thejustification is thatcurrentfinancinglanguageis vague and risksinconsistentimplementation.
• 106)BeatriceNamunyakJohnsubmitted that theBill shouldincludemeasurestomake diagnosis and therapy affordable and widely accessible,including subsidies, public service coverage,or partnerships with trained professionals in every county.ThejustificationisthatformaldiagnosisiscurrentlylimitedtoKISEand KNHwithlongwaiting times,whileprivatepractitionerschargehighfeeswith assessmentscostinguptoKES10,000 and therapysessionsrangingfromKES 2,500for45-60minutes.

2.10.RIGHTSOFPERSONSWITHAUTISM(CLAUSE9)

• 107)AlfredGicheruMazerahsubmittedthatClause9shouldbeamendedtoread: "personswith autism andotherrecognisedneurodevelopmentalconditionsshall enjoyalltherights,protectionandprivilegesasprovidedforunderthePersons LivingwithDisabilityAct,2025andotherrelevantlaws."Thejustificationis to ensure equallegalprotection andpreventinterpretive exclusion ofnon-autism neurodevelopmental disabilities.
• 108) Albert Wanjeri,Rights-Based Advocate,submitted that the Bill should be explicitlyanchoredinArticle27oftheConstitution(Equalityandfreedomfrom discrimination)andArticle54(Rights ofpersonswith disabilities).Hesubmitted that the law should clearlyrecognize autisticpersons as rights-holders,notmerely recipientsofcareorwelfare,andshould expresslyprohibitdiscriminationbased onautismin education,employment,healthcare,housing,and access topublic services.Thejustificationisthatautismisnotonlyamedicalcondition;it isa lifelongneurodevelopmental difference thatraisesfundamentalissuesofequality, dignity,access toservices,education,employment,and social inclusion.
• covering childhood,adolescence, adulthood,and ageing; adult diagnostic and mentalhealth services;vocational andskillstrainingpathwaysfor autisticyouth andadults;andemployment inclusion measures including taxincentives for

targets orquotas.He alsosubmittedthatharmful,abusive,orunscientificpractices shouldbeprohibited,includingpunitive or"conversiontherapies,"with anethical oversightandaccreditationmechanismforautismservices.

• 110)AlbertWanjerifurthersubmittedthatclearcomplaintsandredressmechanisms shouldbeestablished;penaltiesshouldbeprovidedfordiscriminationordenial of services;autism-related consultation andhospitalvisitchargesshould be capped at KSh 1,oo0 maximum;andautismservices should beintegrated into NHIF/SHIF/SHA/Taifa Carefull benefitpackages.He submitted that annual reportingtoParliamentshouldberequiredforatleastfiveyearsandthatthe Courts andKenyaNational Commission on HumanRightsshould be empowered toenforcerights.
• 111)JonathanCheruiyotMetet(DisabilityInclusionAdvocate,TechnicalUniversity ofMombasa)submittedthatallPersonswithDisabilitiesshouldbeconsidered withinaunifiedlegalandpolicyframeworktoavoiddirectorindirect discrimination.Disability-specificneedsshouldbeaddressed throughreasonable accommodationwithinmainstreamsystemswithsufficientbudgetaryallocations, andinstitutionalframeworksshouldpromoteinclusionratherthansegregation.

2.11.CAREGIVERSUPPORT

• 112)BeatriceNamunyakJohnsubmitted that theBillshouldexplicitlymandate practical training,recognizing the heavyburdenfamiliescarry and thecritical role caregiversplayinearlyintervention.Thejustificationis thatcaregiversofautistic children face immense challenges and many parents experience social isolation, highstress,andevendepressionduetolackofaccessiblesupportnetworks.
• 113)ChristopherMutunga andAnyesNyagasubmittedthatfamilieswithchildrenwith autism requiremoreresources tohirecaregivers and thegovernment should consider some cash transfers/tax exemptions to support theseparents tohire caregivers.Thejustificationisthattheeconomicburdenonfamilieswithchildren with autism is substantial andrequiresfinancial supportmechanisms.
• 114)SamwelMainaWangarisubmittedthattheBill shouldinclude:respitecare services,mental health support for caregivers,financial support or tax relief measures,and workplace flexibility and protection for caregivers.The justificationisthatcaregiversfaceemotional,physical,andfinancialexhaustion,
• 115)HannahRiseAutisticCBOsubmittedthatpsycho-social supportshouldbe provided to families ofchildrenandpersons with autism,notingthatparent focusedintervention can significantlyimproveparents'mental well-being and theirautisticchildren'sbehavioral/emotionalproblems.

• 116)MargaretThongorisubmittedthatguaranteedcaregiversupportshouldbe introduced, including counselling, respite care, financial assistance,and workplaceprotections.Thejustification is that caregiver burnout andfinancial strainaresignificantbutnotadequatelyaddressed.
• 117) Irene Kimani,a parent and caregiver of a child on the autism spectrum from KajiadoCounty,submittedthattheBillshouldformallyrecognizecaregiversand provide structured caregivereducation,psychosocial support,andlinkagetosocial protectionmechanisms.Shefurthersubmittedthatautismunitsshouldactively inform caregiversandfamiliesofexistingrights andentitlementsunder the PersonsLivingwith Disability Act,2025,includingsocial protection,education support,medical cover,tax reliefs,and affirmative action opportunities.The justification is thatcaregiversface significantmental healthchallengesand financial stress,andformal recognition and supportmechanisms are essential for thewellbeingof bothcaregivers and autisticpersons.

2.12.DATAMANAGEMENT,PROTECTIONANDSCREENING

• 118)Dr.AnnKioisubmittedthatsubsectionsshouldbeadded toSection6todefine minimum dataelementstobecollected;requireinformedconsent and confidentialitysafeguards;andmandateperiodicanalysisandpublicationof anonymized dataforplanningandbudgetingpurposes.Thejustificationis that the Bill doesnotspecify data standards,privacy safeguards,orhow the data will be usedtoimproveservices.Adatabasemustnotonlystoreinformationbutactively informworkforceplanning,schoolplacement,andserviceexpansion.
• 119)HannahRiseAutisticCBOsubmittedthatapolicyshouldbeenactedtoprotect howdataofchildrenandpersonswithautismspectrumdisorderissharedand protected,notingthatpersonswithautismandtheirfamilieshavebeenused as objectsofcharitybycharitableorganizations,andthepolicyshouldaim to strengthentheprotectionundertheDataProtectionAct.
• 120)MiltonOnyiro,aparentfromMombasaCountysubmitted thatanyautismdata collected mustrespect privacy and consent,in line with theDataProtectionAct, and thatautisticpersonsshouldbeprotectedfromdiscriminationinhealthcare, education,andpublicservices.
• 121) OliverNgeta submitted that the GovernmentofKenya canimplementuniversal earlyscreeningfor ASDat18-24months,withtargetedscreeningatkey milestones (e.g.,entry to primary school,transitionsbetween classes),and that primary health care workers should be trained torecognizeredflags (e.g.,limited jointattention,reducedpretendplay,languagedelay)andtoreferpromptly.He furthersubmittedthatapubliclyfunded,timelydiagnosticpathwayshouldbe available to all children,regardless of socioeconomic status,with multidisciplinary diagnostic teams(pediatricians,child psychologists,speech language therapists,occupational therapists,andeducationspecialists)toconduct

assessmentswithtimetargets:initial assessmentwithin3monthsofreferral,and comprehensivediagnosiswithin6-12months.

• 122)MargaretThongori submitted thatmandatorynational screeningprotocolsshould bemandatedinMCHclinicsatbirth,6,12,18and24months,andatschoolentry. Shefurthersubmittedthatreal-timereportingshouldbemandatedfrompublicand privatehealthfacilities,schools,rehabilitationcentres,andsocial serviceswith detectionis astated objective,theBill lacks concretescreeningschedules.
• 123)AlbertWanjerisubmitted that routine developmental screening andreferral should bemandatedatmaternalandchildhealthclinicsandimmunizationvisits(both publicandprivatehealthfacilities);autismscreeningshouldbeintegratedintothe specialists shouldbeestablished;parentsand caregivers shouldbeformally recognized as co-therapists; and government-funded caregiver training programmesshouldbeprovidedacrossall counties.

2.13.SERVICESTANDARDSANDTIMELINES

• 124)CalvinceOmondi submitted thatanewsectionon"ServiceStandardsand Timelines"shouldbeinsertedestablishing:amaximum3-monthorappropriate timelinewaiting time fromreferral to diagnosticassessment;apost-diagnostic supportpackage tobeofferedwithinaspecifictimeline;annualreportingon waiting timesbycountyandnationalgovernments;andpenaltiesorintervention mechanismsfor areasfailing tomeet standards.Thejustificationis that there are nospecifictimeframesfordiagnosis,assessment,orservicedelivery,leavinga hugegapin the operationalizationof theBill.
• 125)KimberlyWanjiruNjausubmittedthat theBill shouldestablish anational autism screeningandreferralpathwaylinkingcommunityhealthservices,hospitals,and educationalplacement;clearly specify whichprofessionalsare authorized to screen,assess,and diagnose autism;and introduce reasonable timelines or maximumwaitingperiodsfor diagnosis.Thejustificationis thatparentscurrently face fragmented systems,inconsistent diagnostic recognition,and prolonged delays.
• 126)OliverNgetafurther submitted thatevery diagnosedlearnershouldhave an Individualized SupportsPlan(ISP)developed by a multidisciplinary team, detailing:communicationgoals,social skills targets,sensory accommodations, academic accommodations,behavioural supports,and family training and caregiversupport,withIsPreviewstooccuratleasttwiceperyear.

2.14.EMPLOYMENT, TRANSITION TO ADULTHOOD AND INDEPENDENTLIVING

• 127)The Coalition ofParents,Caregivers,Professionals,DisabilityRightsAdvocates andPersonswithLivedExperienceonNeurodivergencesubmittedthattheBill mustexplicitlyprovideforlifelongsupportincludingvocationaltraining, supportedemployment,independentand assistedlivingoptions,ageing-related care,and long-term rehabilitation services.The justification is that the Bill's narrowfocus on childrenfails torespond to therealitiesof autisticpersons as they transitionintoadulthood.
• 128)Sanaipei Ntimamaraisedthequestionofwhatlifewilllooklike fora neurodivergentchildoncetheyageoutfromtheschoolingsystem,andsubmitted thattheBillneedstoaddressthetransition toadulthoodandpost-secondary education andsupportservices,includingwhether the Governmentwill aidget intocollegesfortheirpreferredskills,andwhetherfamilieswillbeassistedin lookingafterthemfinancially.
• 129)OliverNgetasubmittedthattransitionplanningshouldbeginnolaterthanage14 andbereviewed annually,focusingon:education opportunities(includinghigher options,independentlivingskills,andtransportationand community participation.Healsosubmitted thataNational TransitionandEmployment Service(NTES)shouldbeestablishedtoassistwithjobplacement,internships, apprenticeships,andsupportedemployment,withemployerstobeencouragedto hireindividuals with ASD throughincentives such as taxrelief,subsidies,and recognitionprograms.
• 130)TheAutismHelpingHandsFoundationsubmitted thatpoliciesshouldbeadopted toactivelyemployqualifiedpersonswithautismwithinthepublicsector;income earnedbyemployedpersonswithautismshouldbeexemptedfromtaxation;and incentivesshould beprovided toprivateemployerswhohireindividualsonthe autismspectrum.Forindividualswithsevereautismwhoareunable towork independently,structuredincome supporttooneparentorprimarycaregiver shouldbeconsidered.
• 131)MiltonOnyirosubmitted that affirmative actionpolicies,quotas,orreasonable accommodationsshouldbeintroducedfor employingpersonswith autismin the public sector,and that affordable housing schemes or supported living arrangements,includingsemi-independentandassisted-livingoptionsforadults with autism,shouldbeprovided.

2.15.AUTISM-FRIENDLYENVIRONMENTSANDPUBLICSPACES

• 132)SanaipeiNtimamasubmittedthatautism-friendlyspacessuchassensory/quiet rooms should be established at places like airports,train and bus terminals, hospitals,churches,malls and shopping centres,government offices (Huduma Centres,immigration offices),and entertainment centres such as stadiums.She furthersubmitted thatprivateentitiessuchaschildren'splaygroundsandplay areasshouldbeencouragedtosetasidetimepermonthforchildrenonthe spectrum.
• 133) The justification is that autisticindividuals benefit from sensory-friendly environmentstomanagesensorysensitivitiesandreduceanxietyinpublicspaces.
• 134)SanaipeiNtimamaalsosubmittedthatinternationallyacknowledgedprogrammes liketheHiddenDisabilitiesSunflowerProgrammeshouldbeincorporatedintothe frameworktopromoteinclusion,awarenessandacceptance.
• 135)ThejustificationisthattheHiddenDisabilitiesSunfloweris agloballyrecognized symbolfornon-visibledisabilitiesincludingautism,andwearersbenefitfromhelp beingofferedtomaketheirdailylivingeasier.
• 136)NoahAmolo,a father ofan 11-year-oldautisticson submittedthatautistic childrenshouldbegrantedpriorityserviceinclinicsforallnon-emergency ailments,similar tohowexpectantmothersorpersonswith disabilitiesreceive priority.Hefurther submitted thatallmedically-necessary tests should be subsidizedorprovidedfreewhenachildpresentsavalidNationalDisabilityCard indicatingAutism.
• 137)Thejustificationisthatchildrenwithautismoftenstrugglewithsensory overstimulation,longqueues,andunpredictableenvironmentsinhealthfacilities, whichoftentriggerextremedistress,meltdowns,orshutdowns.

2.16.NUTRITIONALINTERVENTIONSINAUTISMMANAGEMENT

• 138)Dr.SarahCherereObarasubmitted thatamongtheASDInterventions,nutrition isacriticalcomponentthatneedstobeputonboard atthisinceptionphase.She submittedthatresearchonnutritioninterventionssupportsimprovementsinnonverbal intellectual ability,autism diagnostic observation schedule severity, reduced inflammation,communication,stereotypical behaviour and aggressiveness,hyperactivity andtantrums,ADHD,gastrointestinal symptoms, cognitivesociability,restrictiverepetitivebehaviour,andnutritionstatus.
• 139)Thejustificationisthatchildren and adolescentswith autismsufferfrom altered sensory processing and behavioral rigidityincluding allergies,aversions,feeding problems,and GIproblemsleadingtohighprevalenceofmalnutrition.

2.17.ASSISTIVETECHNOLOGYANDINNOVATION

• 140)Daveson Ndirangu,an occupational therapist, submitted that theBill should integrate3Dprintingforpersonalizedsensorytools:precisioncustomizationof toys with specific tactile densities for different sensory seeking patterns; anatomical scaling for custom-contouredpencil grips and eating utensils;local rapidadaptation asachild'ssensoryneedsevolve.Thejustificationisthatautism is a diverse spectrum and'one-size-fits-all' therapeutic toys oftenfail.3Dprinting offersarevolutionary solution for customizationandaffordability,andby producing these toolslocally in County Autism Units,expensive imported equipmentcanbereplacedwithlow-costalternatives.
• 141)NyagaAlexMuthumasubmittedthatParliamentandrelevantministriesshould integrate assistivedigital toolsinto classrooms and explorefundingpathwaysfor innovations that addressgapsin teachercompetence andlearner communication. OliverNgetasubmittedthataccesstoassistivecommunicationdevices,apps,and otherAACtoolsshouldbemadeaffordableand accessibletoall.

2.18.GOVERNANCE,ACCOUNTABILITYANDINTER-MINISTERIAL COORDINATION

• 142)InclusivePathwaysHub(IPH) submitted that aNational Autism Council should be established including MoH,MoE,MoSD,NGOs,and parent advocates, requiring collaboration between ministries to streamline assessments,school placement,therapies,anddatamanagement.TheBillshouldmandatetheMinistry ofEducationtopublishguidelinesonautism-inclusiveschoolenvironments.The
• 143)InclusivePathwaysHubfurthersubmitted thatcountygovernmentsshouldreceive dedicatedfundingfor autismprogrammes annually,withsubsidies availablefor low-income families toaccess therapy,medication,assistive technology,and specializedschooling.Schools shouldreceivegrantsforsensoryrooms,learning support materials,and training of Learning Support Coordinators,Special EducationalNeedsCoordinators,andinclusiveassistants.
• 144)InclusivePathwaysHubsubmittedthatanaccreditationframeworkshouldbe createdforprofessionalsworkingwithautisticlearners—therapists,shadow teachers,behaviour specialists,etc. —requiringongoingprofessional development andmonitoring of practicestandardsinschools.
• 145)InclusivePathwaysHub submitted thatschools andhealthfacilities should be required to submitannual reports on:number of children assessed,services provided,andaccommodationimplemented.Acomplaintandredressmechanism shouldbeestablishedforparentsfacingdiscriminationordenialofservices,with clearpenaltiesforinstitutionsthatrefuse admissionorfailtoprovidereasonable accommodation.

• 146)MargaretThongorisubmittedthattheBillmustrequiretheCabinetSecretaryto integrate health,education,and social protection systems for comprehensive autism management,including:inclusive education models,Individualized EducationPlans(IEPs),transitionplanningforschool-to-work,socialprotection cash transferprograms,andworkplaceaccommodations.Thejustificationis that autism affects learning,social functioning,employment,and community inclusion,and without this integration,autistic persons will continue to fall throughsystemicgaps.
• 147)SamwelMainaWangarisubmittedthattheBillshouldrequire:regularreporting timelines and transparency on funding and services.The justification is that withoutaccountability,familiesmaynotseerealchange.

2.19.GENERALANDCROSS-CUTTINGISSUES

• 148)An anonymousstakeholdersubmitted thatinlaw,autismshouldberecognized as aconditionandnota disease,and should beincludedunder disabilitylaws. Individualslivingwithautismshouldnotbediscriminatedagainstineducation, employment,healthcare,churches,barazas,and othersettings.Caregivers should deemednecessaryand thisshouldbeanchoredinlaw.Thejustificationisthat legalrecognitionisfundamental toensuringprotectionandnon-discrimination of personswith autism across all lifedomains.
• 149)The Coalition ofParents,Caregivers,Professionals,DisabilityRightsAdvocates andPersonswith LivedExperienceonNeurodivergence submitted that theBill shouldbecomprehensivelyrevisedtoadoptinclusive,neurodiversity-affirming language,explicitly recognize autism as a disability,and consider broader terminology such as'neurodivergent persons,'which affirms diversityrather than deficit.Thejustificationisthatstigma oftenbeginsinthelawitself;arightsrespecting andinclusivestatutesetsthefoundationforinclusive attitudes,ethical practice,andmeaningful support acrosssociety.
• 150)AlfredGicheruMazerah submittedthat theBill,beingtargetedatautism specifically,wouldbenefitfrombeingpartofabroaderpolicyframeworkfor neurodevelopmentalconditionsinKenya,andproposedapolicypathwayfor addressingrelatedneurodevelopmentalconditions toensurenopersonisleft behindduetoadiagnosticlabel thatfallsoutsidethenarrowscopeofthecurrent Bill.
• 151) Margie N.Koech(Occupational Therapist) submitted that a dedicated chapter on rehabilitationshouldbeincludedintheKenyanConstitutionreflecting contemporary understandings of rehabilitation,moving away from colonial perspectivesthatviewrehabilitationthroughadeficitlens.

Shesubmitted that amoreholisticandempoweringapproachshould be embraced thatsupportsindividualsinreachingtheirfull potential.

• 152)SanaipeiNtimamasubmittedthataseatontheboardoftheNational Councilof PersonswithDisabilitiesshouldbeallocatedforaParent/Caregiver tomakesure theyareincluded in policymakingand execution.AlbertWanjeri submitted that meaningful participationofautisticadults,parents,guardians,caregivers,and rights and autism organizations on all autism-related boards,committees,and advisorybodiesatnationalandcountylevelsshouldbemandated.The andgovernance.
• 153)IreneKimani submitted that theBill currentlyemphasizesdiagnosticcentres and shouldbeexpandedtodesignateAutismDiagnostic,TreatmentandManagement Centres to ensure access to ongoing therapeutic and support services beyond diagnosis.Shefurthersubmitted thattheBill shouldmandatetherecruitment, employment,anddeploymentoftrainedspecialneedsteachers,speechtherapists, occupational therapists,and other autism-related professionals,leveraging the existingpooloftrainedbutunemployedpersonnel.Thejustificationisthatwithout qualified professionals deployedacross schools and autism centres,theBill's objectivescannotberealized.
• 154)Ananonymousstakeholder submittedthatthescopeof theBill should be expandedtocoverNeurodevelopmentalDisabilities(NDDs),withautismlisted asoneofthecategories,orthattheBillshouldexpresslyprovideforinclusionof other NDDs such as ADHD,Intellectual Disability,Developmental Delay, Cerebral Palsy,Specific Learning Disabilities,and Communication Disorders. Thejustificationisthatfocusingexclusively on autismrisksmarginalizingrelated conditions which face similar challenges in screening,diagnosis,management, education,andsocialinclusion,contraryto CRPD,WHOclassifications,and the PersonsLivingwithDisabilityAct,2025.

CHAPTERTHREE

3.COMMITTEEOBSERVATIONSANDRECOMMENDATIONS

3.1Committee Observations

• 155)Having considered theAutism Management Bill,2025(SenateBillsNo.19of 2025),and submissionsfrom stakeholders,the Committeemadethefollowing observations—
• 1.That theBill as currently drafted adopts a predominantlymedical andwelfareoriented approach toautism,without adequatelygrounding it inthe constitutionalrightsframeworkorKenya'sobligationsundertheUNCRPD. TheBill doesnot explicitlyprohibitdiscrimination againstpersonswith autism ineducation,healthcare,employment,or accesstopublicservices and doesnot frame autisticpersonsasrights-holders.Thisis inconsistentwithArticle 27and Article54oftheConstitutionandwiththeCRPD'ssocialmodelofdisability;
• 2.ThattheBill isheavilyfocusedon earlychildhood andscreeninginchildren, withnoprovisionfor adultswith autism.This omission is particularly significantgiventhatmanyKenyanswithautismarediagnosedin adulthood, orhavenotbeendiagnosedatall,and thatautismisalifelongcondition requiringsupport across thefull lifespanincludingin adolescence,adulthood, employment,independentliving,andageing;
• 3.Thatthereisneedfor theBilltohaveaprovisionthatmakesitadutyof healthcarefacilities,educationinstitutionsandcommunityhealthpromotersto identify,refer and assist parents to register children with autism within a specified period after diagnosisandidentification.Consequently,the Committeenotedthatthereisneedforcriminalizationofthehabitorparents concealingpersonswithautismastodenythemthebenefitsprovidedunder thislaworanyotherlaw.
• occupational therapists,speech and language therapists,physiotherapists, clinicalpsychologists,behavioral therapists,orspecialneedseducatorswhoare critical experts in the management of autism.This is a significant gap,as effective autism managementrequiresmultidisciplinary,andinterdisciplinary approach.Kenya'scurrentworkforceof approximately9oooccupational therapistsisfarinsufficient,and theBill misses an opportunity tomandate the expansionofthisworkforceanditsintegrationintoautismservicedeliveryat both nationaland countylevels.According to APHRC researchdata, occupational therapy(38.7%)and speech therapy(35.3%)are themost recommendedinterventionsforautisticchildren,yetavailabilitydoesnotmeet demand andcostis aprimarybarrier;

• 5.That theBill createsautismunitslocated insidehealthministriesandmainly framed around coordination,data,training,awareness and diagnostic support.However,thereisaneed tocreateaNational AutismCouncil to provide apermanent,cross sector institutionwith a clear legalmandate to coordinateautismpolicy,standards,data,services,advocacyandaccountability acrosshealth,education andsocialprotection.Acouncilmodelwouldtherefore createaninstitutionalhomeforsustainedstakeholderparticipation.
• 6.That theBill's education provisions under Clause 8 arenarrow,limited to curriculum integrationofautismawarenessin teacher training,anddonot imposeenforceable obligationsonschoolsregardinginclusiveeducation.There isnoprovisionforIndividualizedEducationPlans(IEPs),learningsupport or shadow teachers,sensory accommodations,alternative assessment arrangements,classsizelimitswithinautismunits,oracomplaintsmechanism forfamilieswhosechildren are excluded orinadequately supported.It basically ignoresthewidelyrecognizedconceptofreasonableaccommodations.This leavesautisticlearnerswithouteffectivelegalprotectionoftheirrightto inclusiveeducationunderArticle54oftheConstitution;
• 7.That while theBill references"community-level caregiver support groups,"it does not define the role of caregivers,providefor caregiver training frameworks,establish respite care services,or guarantee psychosocial or financial supportforcaregivers.Giventheresearchevidence thatthevast financialstress,andsocialisolation,theabsenceofstructuredcaregiversupport provisionsisacriticalgap;
• 8.That theKenyaInstituteof Special Education(KISE)bedesignated as thelead national institution for developing and delivering standardized training programmesforcaregivers,includingparentsandguardians,ofpersonswith autism,in collaborationwith theMinistryofHealth,county autismunitsand National Councilof PersonswithDisabilities(NCPWD).Consequently,KISE shoulddevelopaccreditedshortcoursesandmodularprogrammes(face-to-face and online) for caregivers on autism understanding,daily management, communication,behavioursupport,and educationsupport.
• 9.That the Bill's financing provisions use aspirational language without establishing specific,enforceable budget lines,ring-fenced allocations, timelines for implementation,orreporting obligations.The Bill does not require insurance providers to cover autism interventions,diagnostic assessments,orassistivecommunicationdevices.Withoutsuchprovisions,the Bill'sobjectiveswillremaininaccessibletothemajorityofKenyanfamilies whocannotaffordprivateautismcare;

• 10.ThattheBill assignssignificantresponsibilitiestobothnationaland county governmentsbut doesnotestablishimplementation timelines,performance benchmarks,a monitoring and evaluation framework,annual reporting requirementstoParliamentor County Assembliesor aclearredress mechanismforfamiliesdeniedservices.Withoutthesemechanisms,therisk ofnon-implementationishigh;
• 11.Thatwhiletheestablishmentofnationalandcountydiagnosticcentresisa commendableprovision,theBill doesnotdefinethescopeofservicestobe providedbeyond diagnosis,doesnotmandatemultidisciplinary staffing,does notspecifyminimumservicestandardsorstandardizeddiagnosticprotocols, and does notrequirepost-diagnostic supportpackages.Diagnosiswithout follow-oninterventionpathwayleavesfamilieswithoutdirection andresults inpooroutcomes;
• 12.That the language of"prevention of autism"appearing throughout the Bill is the single most significant substantive concern raised by stakeholders, including healthcare professionals,researchers,parents,and persons with livedexperience of autism.The Committeeisof theview that this language mustberemovedentirelyandreplacedwithlanguagefocusedon identification,screening,community awareness,stigma reduction,and support.

3.2CommitteeRecommendations

• 156)TheCommitteemakesthefollowingrecommendations-
• 1.That,thedefinitionofAutismofAutismSpectrumDisorderbeamended to"Autism"or "autism spectrum disorder(ASD)"means a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition,characterized by differencesinsocial communication and social interaction,sensory and information processing,behaviour,and cognition,which presents across a broad spectrumofabilities,strengths,andsupportneeds,andwhich—
• (a)manifests differently across individuals,including differences in verbalandnon-verbalcommunication,sensorysensitivities,patterns ofbehaviour,and ways of experiencing and engaging with the world;
• (b)may co-occur with other neurodevelopmental conditions or comorbidities,includingbutnotlimitedtoattentiondeficit hyperactivity disorder,epilepsy,anxiety disorders,and specific learning disabilities;
• (c)is present across thelifespanofaperson,from childhood through adulthood,andmaybeidentified atanystageoflife;and
• (d)is not a mental illness.
• 2.Thatclause2oftheBillbeamended toincludethefollowingdefinitions-
• (a)"Caregiver"means a parent,legal guardian,familymember,orany other person whoprovides ongoing,substantial support for the daily care, wellbeing,development,orinclusionofapersonwithautism,whetheron apermanentortemporarybasis.
• (b)"Inclusive Education"means an education system,philosophy, and practice that ensures equal access,participation,and achievement for all learners,including learners with autism,through the provision of reasonable accommodation,individualized support,accessiblelearning environments,andappropriateteachingmethodologies.
• ()"Individualized EducationPlan"means a documentedplan developed collaboratively by a multidisciplinary team,parents,and, where appropriate,thelearner,setting outtailored educationalgoals,support strategies,reasonableaccommodations,andreviewtimelinesforalearner with autism.
• (d)"Multidisciplinaryteam"means ateamofprofessionalsfrom twoormore disciplinesinvolvedintheassessment,diagnosis,intervention,orsupport ofapersonwithautism,andshallinclude,butnotbelimitedto,medical practitioners,occupational therapists,speech andlanguage therapists, clinical psychologists,special needs educators,behavioural therapists, andphysiotherapists.
• (e)"Occupational Therapist"means a person duly registered under the Occupational Therapists Act (Cap.253H) as an occupational therapist.

• ()"Persons with autism"includes children,adolescents,and adults with autism,whetherdiagnosedin childhoodor adulthood.
• (g)"Reasonable accommodation"means necessary and appropriate modificationandadjustments,notimposing a disproportionateburden,to ensureapersonwithautismcanexercise theirrightsandfundamental freedoms on anequalbasiswith others.
• 3.That theBill be amended toinclude anApplication section and provide that the Billshallbe interpretedandapplied inamanner consistentwith the ConstitutionofKenya,2010,thePersons withDisabilityActandKenyas obligationsundertheUnited NationsConvention on theRightsof Personswith Disabilities,including the principles of human dignity,non-discrimination, autonomy,equalityof opportunity,accessibility,and fullandeffective participation and inclusion in society.
• 4.That all references to"prevention of autism"in Clause3and throughout the Bill be deleted andreplacedwith languagefocused on identification,stigma reduction,support,and inclusion.
• 5.That the object clause of theBill be amended toinclude thefollowing-
• (a)Provisionofinclusiveeducation,habilitation,andrehabilitationservices forpersonswithautismacrossthelifespanofaperson;
• (b)Protectionof therightsofpersonswithautismfromdiscriminationin education,employment,healthcare,andaccesstopublicservices;
• (c)Support for caregivers ofpersons with autism,includingpsychosocial services,training,respitecare,andfinancialreliefmechanisms;and
• (d)Promotion of transition support,vocational training,supported employment,and independent livingfor autistic adolescents and adults.
• 6.That Clause 4(1)(b)of theBillbe amended torequire theCabinetSecretary to develop,publish,andtablebeforeParliamentaNationalAutismStrategywithin oneyearofthecomingintoforceoftheAct,developedthroughaconsultative processinvolving autistic persons,caregivers,professional associations,and relevantgovernmentagencies.
• 7.ThattheBillbeamended toprovidethattheCabinetSecretaryresponsiblefor health develops aMinimumAutismServicePackagewithintwelve(12) months ofcommencementoftheAct,covering-
• (a)Standardized,evidence-based screening and diagnosticprotocols;
• (b)Multidisciplinary intervention services including occupational therapy, speechandlanguage therapy,physiotherapy,andbehavioral support;
• (c)Post-diagnostic support packages; and
• (d) Caregivertrainingandpsychosocialsupport

• 8.ThattheBillbeamendedtorequirecapacitybuildingforvariousstakeholders includingcontinuoustrainingofmedicalpractitioners,occupational therapists, speechand languagetherapistsphysiotherapists,specialneedseducators,and caregivers.
• 9.That theBill beamended torequire the CabinetSecretary to table an annual metrics,workforcedeployment,andoutcomesunderthisAct.Thesame should be replicated in county governments.
• 10.Thatclause8oftheBillwhichdealswitheducationbeamendedby-
• (a) theinsertion of a newsub-clause under Clause8requiring all public and privateschoolstodevelopandimplementIndividualizedEducationPlans (IEPs)foralllearnerswithautism,preparedbyamultidisciplinaryteam in consultationwithparentsorcaregivers,andreviewed atleasttwiceper schoolyear;
• (b)expansion to require all learning institutions to make reasonable accommodations for autistic learners,including sensory-friendly classroom adaptations,flexibleand alternativeassessmentarrangements, visual learning supports,and access to in-school therapy services;
• (c)insertionofaprovisionexpresslyprohibiting schools fromrefusing admissionto,or excluding,learners with autism on accountoftheir diagnosis,perceived severity,developmental milestones (such as toileting),or disability-relatedbehaviour,in line withArticle54of the Constitution.Clearpenaltiesshouldbeestablishedfornon-compliance;
• (d)insertionofanewsectionprovidingforstructuredtransitionplanningfor autisticlearnersto begin no later thanage fourteen(14),covering pathways tofurthereducation,vocationaltraining,supported employment,independentliving,andcommunityparticipation;
• 11.That thefollowingbeincorporatedinregard toaccesstohealthcare-
• (a)theSocialHealthAuthority(SHA)and all licensed insuranceproviders toinclude autism screening,diagnosis,and evidence-based therapeutic interventions (occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, behavioural therapy,physiotherapy) in their standard benefit packages;
• (b)Prohibitionofdiscrimination againstorexclusion ofpersonswith autism fromhealthinsurancecoverage;
• (c)Governmentsubsidiesorsocialprotectioncashtransfersforlow-income families to access therapy,medication,and assistive communication devices;and
• (d)Tax exemptionsonimportationofautism-relatedassistivedevicesand therapeuticmaterials.
• 12.ThattheBillbeamendedto-

• (a)provide for government-funded caregiver trainingprogrammes in all counties;
• (b)provideforpsychosocial supportservicesandmentalhealthcarefor caregivers;
• ()provideforstructuredrespitecareservices;
• (d)provideforworkplaceflexibilityprotectionsandprotectionfrom employment discriminationdue tocaregiving obligations;and
• (e)provideforfinancial supportmechanisms
• 13.That new clauses tobeinserted in theBill toguarantee continuity of care and support forautistic adults,including-
• (a)Vocational skills training and supported employment pathways;
• (b) Incentivesfor private employerswho hirepersonswith autism;
• ()Affirmative actiontargetsforemployment ofpersonswith autisminthe public sector;and
• (d)Affordable andassisted living optionsfor autisticadultswhorequire supportedindependent living.
• 14.That theregulationsunder Clause10providefor the establishment of amultisectoralNationalAutismAdvisoryCommitteecomprisingrepresentativesof autistic persons,caregiver and parent associations,occupational therapists, speech andlanguage therapists,and other alliedhealthprofessionals,special needseducators,disabilityrightsadvocates,theNational CouncilforPersons withDisabilities,and theCabinetSecretariesforHealth,EducationandLabour andSocial Protection.ThecommitteeshouldbeCommitteeshouldbe mandatedtoparticipateintheformulationofallnationalautismstrategies, policies,andstandards.
• 15.That theBill be amended to ensure that all references to"Diagnostic Centres" be mandated to provide-
• (a)EarlyscreeningofAutism
• (b)Intervention therapies including occupational therapy,speech and language therapy,physiotherapy,and behavioural support;
• (c)Parent and caregiver trainingandpsychosocial support;
• (d)School transition support and educationcoordination and
• (e)Respite care servicesfor caregivers.

TheClerkoftheSenate, ParliamentBuildings,

NAIROBI.

RE: COMMITTEESTAGEAMENDMENTSTOTHEAUTISMMANAGEMENTBILL (SENATEBILLSNO.19OF2025)

NOTICEisgivcnthattheChairpersonoftheSenateStandingCommitteeonHealth,Sen.Jackson Mandago,EGH,M.P,intendstomovethefollowingamendmentstotheAutismManagementBill, 2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025)attheCommitteeStage-

Clause3

THATclause3of theBill is amendedby—

• (a)Deletingparagraph(e)andsubstitutingthereforthefollowingnewparagraph(e)promotepublicawarenessaboutautism,reducestigma anddiscrimination,fostersocial inclusion,andensureaccesstoinformationrelatingtoautisminaccordancewiththe provisionsof theAccesstoInformationAct;

Justification

The amendment to paragraph (e) deletes the words"prevention of autism" to correct a scientificallyinaccurateformulationthatautism canbeprevented.

CLAUSE4

THATclause4oftheBillisamendedinsubclause(1)-

• (a)bydeletingparagraph(b)andsubstitutingthereforthefollowingnewparagraph(b)formulate,publish,andtablebeforeParliamentaNational AutismStrategy within twelve(12)monthsofthecomingintoforceofthisAct,developedthroughaconsultative processinvolvingautisticpersons,caregivers,professional associations,andrelevant government agencies,and alignedwith international best practices;
• (b)bydeletingparagraph(d)andsubstitutingthereforthefollowingnewparagraph(d)undertakccapacitybuildingforvariousstakeholdersincludingcontinuoustrainingof medical practitioners,occupational therapists,speech andlanguage therapists, physiothcrapists,specialneedseducators,andcaregivers;

(2)The Council shall establishregionaloffices anddecentraliseitsservicesto suchotherpartsofthecountry asitconsidersnecessary,inaccordancewithArticle 6(3)oftheConstitution.

• Functionsof6C.The functions of the Council shall be to-
• (a)co-ordinateandoverseetheimplementation of thisActbynational and countygovernments,governmentagencies,healthfacilitics,schools,and otherinstitutions;

(b)

• ()advise the CabinetSecretary on the formulation ofpolicy,legal and administrative measures,guidelines,strategies,and standardsrelating to autismmanagement;
• (d)formulateandmonitor theimplementationoftheNationalAutism StrategydevelopedunderthisAct,incollaborationwiththenational and countygovernments;
• (e)establish andmaintain anationalautism database,and co-ordinatewith county autism units to ensure the regular collection,analysis,and publication of disaggregated data on the prevalcnce,diagnosis,and outcomesofautisminKenya;
• (f)ensure that autism screening,diagnostic,therapeutic,and educational services are accessible,equitable,and of consistcnt quality across all counties;
• (g)adviseonand enforce accessibility,reasonable accommodation,andnondiscrimination forpersonswith autism inrelation tohealth services, education,employment,housing,andaccesstopublicservices;
• (h)co-ordinatetheprovisionofassistivedevicesandotherassistive technologiestopersonswithautismregisteredwiththeCouncil;
• (i)establish and maintainlinkageswith local,regional,and international organisations,research institutions,and bodies concerned with autism research,policy,and best practice;
• )receive,investigate,and determinecomplaintsfrompersonswith autism, caregivers,andfamilies regardingdenialofservices,discrimination,or failurebyanyinstitution tocomplywiththisAct;
• (k)conduct andpublicise research onanymatter relating to the rights, wellbeing,andmanagementofpersonswith autism;
• (l)undertake,facilitate,and co-ordinate public awareness and education campaigns on autism acrossall counties;
• (m)advise theCabinetSecretary andcountyexecutive committeemembers onanynational,regional,orinternational agreements and treatiesrelating toautism andneurodevelopmental conditions;
• (n)workwith theSocial HealthAuthority,licensed insurance providers,and thenationalgovernmenttoensuretheimplementationofhealthinsurance coverageforautismservicesasrequiredunderthisAct;and
• (o)performsuchotherfunctions asmaybe assigned totheCouncil under this oranyotherwrittenlaw.

theCouncil

Establishment ofCommittees

• 6D.ForthebetterperformanceofitsfunctionsunderthisAct,theCouncil may-
• (a)constitutecommitteesconsistingofitsmembersandotherpersonswith relevantexpertise;and
• (b)co-opt experts,where appropriate,to serve on such committees fora renewableperiodofoneyear,andmayassigntoanycommitteesuch functionsoftheCouncil asitmaydetermine.
• Composition of6E.(1)The Council shall comprise of thefollowing members-
• (a)a Chairperson,who shall be apersonwithknowledge and experience in autismmanagement,disabilityrights,orneurodevelopmental conditions, andwhoshallbeappointedbythePresidentontherecommendationof the CabinetSecretaryfollowing a competitive and transparentselection process;
• (b)thePrincipal Secretaryin theMinistryresponsibleformattersrelating to health,or arepresentative duly appointedinwriting;
• education,orarepresentativeduly appointedinwriting;
• (d)thePrincipal Secretaryin theMinistryresponsibleformattersrelating to labour andsocial protectionorarepresentative duly appointedinwriting;
• finance,or a representative duly appointedin writing;
• (1)onepersonnominated by the Council of County Governors torepresent countygovernments;
• (g)twopersonswith autism;
• (h) one person representing the parents or caregivers of personswith autism;
• (i)one registered occupational therapist,nominated by the Kenya Occupational TherapistsAssociation;
• D and LanguagePathologistsAssociation ofKenya;
• (k)oneregisteredspecialneedseducator,nominatedbytheKenyaInstitute ofSpecialEducation;and
• (1)theExecutiveDirectorofthe Council,whoshall serve astheSecretaryto the Council.

(2)thcmembers under6E(1)(f)to(k) shallbeappointed by theCabinetSecretary throughanoticeintheKenyaGazette.

61.(1)Apersonshall bequalifiedor appointmentas achairpersonof theCouncil iftheperson——

• (a)is aKenyan citizen;
• (b)holdsat least afirstdegreefrom auniversityrecognisedinKenya;
• (c)hasknowledge and atleast tenyears'working experience,ofwhich not less than five years shall bein matters relating to autism, neurodevelopmental conditions,disabilityrights orhealthmanagement;

the Council

Qualification ofthe Chairperson andmembers ofthe Council

• (d)hasdemonstratedcommitmenttotherightsandinclusionofpersonswith disabilitiesorneurodevelopmentalconditions;and
• (e)meetstherequirementsof ChapterSixofthe Constitution.

(2)Apersonshallbequalifiedfor appointment as amemberof theCouncilif the person—

• (a)is aKenyan citizen;
• (b)hasknowledge and atleastfiveyears'workingexperiencc,ofwhich not less than threeyears shall beinmattersrelatingtoautism,disability, health,education,or social protection;and
• (c)meetstherequirementsof ChapterSixoftheConstitution.

(3)A person shall not bequalified for appointment as Chairpcrson or a member if suchperson—

• (a)hasbeenremoved fromoffice for contravening thcprovisionsofthe Constitutionoranyotherlaw;
• (c)is amember of agoverning bodyof a political party;
• (b)is a servingpublic officer,saveforPrincipal Secrctaries servingin ex officiocapacity;
• (d)is aMemberofParliamentoramemberofa county asscmbly;
• (f)hasbeen convictedofanoffenceunder thisAct;
• (e)hasbeen convictedofafelony and sentenced to aterm ofimprisonment;
• (g)hasbeenremovedfrom office on account of abuse of office;
• (i)is disqualified under theprovisions of any other written law from appointment as such.
• (h)isadjudgedbankruptorhas entered intoa compositionschemeor arrangementwith creditors;or

of6G.(1) The Chairperson and members of the Council shall hold office for a term offiveyears and shall be eligibleforre-appointmentfor oncfurthcr term.

(2)Amembermay—

• (a)atanytimeresignfromofficebynoticein writingtotheCabinet Secretary,orin thecase ofthe Chairperson,to thePrcsident;or
• i. hasbeenabsentfromthreeconsecutivemeetingsof the Councilwithout thepermission of thechairpcrson,orin the caseof thechairperson,withoutthepermissionof the Cabinet Secretary;
• (b)beremovedfromofficebytheCabinetSecretaryifthemember—
• ii. is adjudgedbankruptor entersinto a composition schemeor arrangementwiththecreditors;
• iv. isconvictedofacriminaloffenceandsentencedtoa termof imprisonment;
• ii. is convictedofanoffenceinvolvingfraudordishonesty;
• V. isfound tohave actedinamannerprejudicial to the aims and objectives of thisAct;

Tenure officeofthe chairperson andmembers ofthe Council Procedurefor appointmentof membersofthe Council The Exccutive Director of the Council

• vi. fails tocomplywith the provisions ofthis Actrelatingto disclosureofinterestasprovidedundertheFirstScheduletothis Act;or
• vii. is otherwiseunableorunfit todischargehisorherfunctions asa memberoftheCouncil.

(3)TheFirstSchedule shall applywith respect to theconduct of the business and affairsoftheCouncil.

• 6H.(1)WheneveravacancyoccursintheofficeoftheChairpersonoramember, theexecutivedirectorshall forthwithnotify thePublicServiceCommission accordingly.
• (2)ThcPublicServiceCommissionshall,withinaperiodoffourteendaysfrom thedateoftheoccurrenceofthevacancy,bynoticeintwodailynewspapersof nationalcirculationanditsofficialwebsiteandthewebsiteoftheMinistry rcsponsibleformattersrelating todisability,declarethevacancyandinvite applicationsfrom persons qualified under thisActwithina periodspecified in the notice.
• (3)The Commission shall consider all applicationssubmittedundersubsection
• (2)and,withinaperiodoffourteendaysfromtheexpiryoftheperiodspecified in thenoticeissuedunder thatsubsection,forwardnamesofpersonsnominated
• for appointment to—
• (a)thePresident,in the case of the Chairperson,or
• (b)theCabinetSecretaryinthecaseofaMember.
• (4)Theappointmentunderthissectionshall bebynoticeintheGazette.

6H.(1) The Council shall appoint an Executive Director through an open, transparcntandcompetitiverecruitmentprocess.

• (2)ThcExecutiveDirectorshall bethesecretarytotheCouncil.
• (3)Apersonshall bequalifiedfor appointmentastheExecutiveDirectorofthe Council if theperson—
• (a)is a citizen of Kenya;
• (b)holds atleastadegreefrom arecogniseduniversity;
• (c)hasatleasttenyearsofprovenworkexperience,ofwhichatleastthree yearsshall beatseniormanagement levelinapublicorprivateinstitution;
• (d)has atleastfive years'experienceinmatters relating to autism, neurodevelopmental conditions, disability management orHealth policy; andmeetstherequirementsofChapterSixoftheConstitution.

(4)TheExecutiveDirectorshallholdofficefora termoffouryears,renewable once.

(5)The ExecutiveDirectorshall beresponsible to the Council for the day-to-day managementoftheaffairsoftheCouncilandshallperformsuchotherfunctions asmaybeconferredbythisActoranyotherwrittenlaw.

Removal from 6l.The Executive Director may be removed from officc by the Council in accordancewith thetermsofthecontractofserviceandtheEmploymentAct.

6J.The Chairperson and members of the Council shall bc paid such sitting allowancesandexpensesasmaybeapprovedbytheCabinctSecretaryonthe adviceoftheSalaries andRemunerationCommission.

officeofthe Executive Director Remuneration of the Chairperson andmembers ofthe Council

Staffof the 6K.The Council may appoint such staff as may be necessary for the proper council dischargeofitsfunctionsunder thisAct,on such termsand conditionsasthe Council,in consultation with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission,may determine.

Funds of the 6L.The funds of the Council shall consist ofCouncil

• (a)fundsappropriated byParliamentfor thepurposes ofthe Council;
• ()grants and donations;and
• (b) such moneys asmay accrue to orvest in the Council in the exercise ofits powers orperformance of itsfunctions;
• (d)such otherfunds asmaybeprovidedfor in anywrittcn law.

Annual Report 6M.(1)Within threemonths aftertheendofeachfinancialycar,thc Councilshall prepare an annual report andsubmit it to theCabinetSecretary.

(2)Theannualreportshall—

• (a)provideacomprehensiveaccount ofthe activities,programmes,andplans of the Council during theyear;
• (b)setoutthe statusofimplementation oftheNational Autism Strategy, including progress against targets,by both national and county governments;
• ()include an analysis of the national autism database,including disaggregated data on prevalence, diagnosis, serviccs accessed,and outcomes;
• (d)report on the number of complaints received,invcstigated,and determined,and theoutcomesthereof;and
• (e)contain afinancial statementinrespectoftheyear.

(3)TheCabinetSecretary shall,withintwomonths ofreceivingthc annual report, causeit tobetabledbeforetheNational Assemblyand theSenatc.

(4)The annual report shall bepublishedon the Council'swcbsitc andpublicised in such othermanner as the Council may determine.

Justification

Thepurpose of the amendment is to establish the Autism Council as the primarybody responsible for all matterspertaining to autism and ensure thatpersons with autism have an opportunity tomake decisions on matters affecting them through their representation to the council.

Newclause8A

Training of8A.ThcKenya Institute of Special Education shall,in consultation with the Caregiversby CabinetSecretary andrelevantprofessional bodies,developtrainingmodulesfor the Kenya Institute of the trainingofautism caregivers,including—

Special

• (a)parents andguardians ofpersonswith autism;

Education

• (b)community-based caregivers andsocialworkers;and

• (c)residential andinstitutional carestaffprovidingsupport topersonswith autism.

Justification

The amendment empowers theKenyaInstitute of Special Education to comeupwith training modulesforcaregiversofpersonswith autism.

Newclause9A,9Band9C

THAT theBill is amcnded byinserting thefollowingnewclauseimmediately after clause9-

Health 9A.(l) No insurer providing health insurance,including the Social Health insurance Authorityshall-

• (a)refuse to enroll,cover,orrenewcoverageforaperson on theground that thepersonhasautism;or
• (b)refuse to cover,limit,orimpose conditionson the treatment,therapy,or management ofautismor anycondition arising as acomorbidityofautism, solelyonthebasisoftheautismdiagnosis.

(2)Nothingin subsection(1) shall be construed toprevent an insurerfrom applying discrimination toallpolicyholders,providedsuchcriteriaarenotappliedina manncrthathastheeffectofsinglingout autismasabasisforexclusion.

9B.TheCabinetSecretaryresponsibleformattersrelated tosocial protectionmay onapplicationofaparentorguardianwhohasfullcustodyandcareofaperson diagnoscdwith autismfortheirbasicneeds,grantalong-termsocialassistance monthlycashtransferofsuchamountasmaybeprescribedbytheCabinet Sccretaryin accordancewiththeSocial AssistanceAct.

coverage

Financial oddns Concealment ofPersons withAutism

Justification

Thepurposeof thenewclauses9Aand9B is tocurbdiscriminationon healthinsurance guardiansofpersonswith autism.Thenewclause9Con the other hand seeks to criminalize theconcealmentofpersonswith autismin a manner thatdenies them thebenefitsprovided by thegovernment and limit theirrights undertheconstitution.

NewSchedule

THAT theBillis amended byinsertingthefollowingnewscheduleimmediatclyafterclause10-

SCHEDULE

PROVISIONSASTOTHECONDUCTOFBUSINESSANDAFFAIRSOFTHE COUNCIL

• 1.TheCouncilshallmeet atleastfour timesineveryyear,andnotmorethan threemonthsshall passbetween onemeetingofthe Council and thenext.
• 2.Notwithstandingparagraph (1) the Chairperson may,on his own motion andshall,uponrequestbyamember,convenea spccialmeetingof the Council at any timewhenheor she deems it expedient for the transaction ofthebusinessiftheCouncil.

3. The chairperson may on his or her own motion,or upon request by a member,call a specialmeetingof theBoardof the Council at any time, where heorsheconsidersitexpedientfor thetransactionof thebusinessof the Council. 4. Exceptinthecaseofaspecialmeeting,orunlessthreequartersofmembers agree,atleastfourteendays'writtennoticeofeverymcctingoftheCouncil shall be given toeverymemberoftheCouncilby thechiefexecutive officer. 5. ThequorumatameetingoftheCouncil shallbe at least two thirdsof the membersoftheCouncil.

9C.(1)Aparent,guardian,nextofkinorapersonincharge ofinstitutionof persons withAutismshallnotknowinglyconceal suchpersoninsuchamanner as todeny anysuchpersontheopportunities andservicesavailableunderthisActoranyother law.

(2)Apersonwho contravenes subsection(1) commits an offence andis liable on convictiontoafinenotexceedingonemillionshillingsortoimprisonmentfora termnotexceedingoneyearortoboth.

Justification

Thepurposeof the scheduleis toprovidefor themanner of conductof thebusinessof the council

• 6.Thechairpersonshallpresideoverall meetingsofthe Council atwhich he orsheispresent,andin the absence the chairperson,thevice chairperson shallpresideandintheabsenceofboth,themembersoftheCouncil present shall electfrom amongst themselves,apersontopresideover themeetings oftheCouncil.
• 7.ThedecisionsoftheCouncil shall bedecidedbyamajorityofthemembers present andvoting,andintheeventofequalityofvotes,thechairpersonor person presiding shall have a castingvote.
• 8.Theproceedingsof the Council shallnot be invalidated byreason only of avacancyamong themembersor a defectin theappointmentor qualificationofamember.
• 9.S Subject to thisSchedule,the Council maydetermineitsownprocedure and theprocedureforanycommitteeof theBoardandforattendanceofany otherpersonsat themeetings andmaymake standingordersinrespect thereof.
• 10.AmemberoftheCouncilwhohasadirectorindirectpersonalorpecuniary interestinamatterdecidedorunderconsiderationbytheCouncil shall
• (a)as soon as reasonably practicable,disclose,in writing,to the Council thefulland accuratedetailsoftheinterest;
• (b)notparticipate in any discussionbytheCouncil relating to that matter;
• ()not voteinrelation to that matter;and
• (d)be absent from the meetingroom when any such discussion or votingistakingplace.
• 11.IfamemberoftheCouncilmakesadisclosureofinterestandcomplies withrequirementsofsubsection(1)inrespectofaproposedcontract—
• (a)thecontractshallnotbevoided;and
• (b)thememberisnotliabletoaccounttotheentityforanylossesthat maybeincurred upon enteringintothecontract.
• 12.lfamemberoftheCouncilfailstomakeadisclosureofinterestorfailsto comply with anyother requirementofsubsection(l)inrespectofa proposedcontract,theCouncil shall void thecontract.
• 13.Where amember of the Council has or acquiresapersonalorpecuniary interest,orisorbecomes theholder ofanoffice,suchthatmakesit rcasonablyforeseeablethataconflictmightarisewithhisorherdutiesas member oftheBoardof theCouncil,themember shall as soon as is reasonablypracticable,disclosetotheCouncil,inwriting,ofthefull and accuratenatureoftheinterest.
• 14.Adisclosureunder thisscheduleshallberecordedin theminutesofthe Council.

Clause2

THATclause2oftheBillisamended-

(a)Deleting the definition of theword"Autism"and substituting therefor thc following-

"Autism"meansa lifelongneurodevelopmental condition,charactcrised by differences in social communication and social interaction,sensory and information processing, behaviour,and cognition,whichpresentsacross abroadspectrumof abilities,strengths, andsupportneeds,andwhich—

• (a)manifests differently across individuals,including differences in verbal and nonverbal communication,sensorysensitivities,patternsofbehaviour,and waysof experiencingandengagingwiththeworld;
• (b)may co-occur withother neurodevelopmental conditions or comorbidities, including butnotlimited to attention deficithyperactivity disorder,epilepsy, anxiety disorders,andspecificlearningdisabilities;
• ()ispresent acrossthelifespanofaperson,fromchildhoodthroughadulthood,and may be identified at any stage of life;and
• (d) is not a mental illness;

(b)Byinserting thefollowingnewdefinitions in aproper alphabetical sequence-

"caregiver"means a parent,legal guardian,family member,or any other person who provides ongoing,substantial support for the daily care,wellbeing,dcvelopment,or inclusionof apersonwith autism,whether on apermanent or temporarybasis;

"inclusive education"means an education system,philosophy,and practice thatensures equal access,participation,and achievement for all learners,including learners with autism,through the provision ofreasonable accommodation,individualised support, accessiblelearningenvironments,and appropriateteachingmethodologics;

"IndividualisedEducationPlan"meansa documentedplandevelopedcollaborativelybya multidisciplinary team,parents and,where appropriate,thelearner,setting out tailored educationalgoals,supportstrategies,reasonableaccommodations,andreviewtimelines foralearnerwithautism;

"Multidisciplinary team"means ateamofprofessionals from twoormore disciplines involvednthassessmentiagnosisntrventionrsuportfrsnwithautsmn shallinclude,butsnotlimitedto,medicalractitioners,occupational therapists,speech and language therapists, clinical psychologists, special needs educators,behavioural therapists,and physiotherapists;

"occupational therapist"means aperson dulyregistered under the Occupational Therapists Act(Cap.253H)as anoccupationaltherapist;

"persons with autism"includes children,adolescents, and adults with autism,whether diagnosedinchildhoodoradulthood;

"reasonable accommodation"means necessary and appropriate modification and adjustments,notimposing a disproportionateburden,to ensure apersonwih autism can exercise theirrightsandfundamentalfreedomsonanequal basiswithothers;

Justification

Theamendments

provide clear definitions thatgive legal effect to the Bill'sprovisions and alignKenya's autismlegislationwithinternationalbestpractice.

Date.

2026.

Sen.JacksonMandago,EGH,M.P Chairperson,SenateStanding Committee onHealth.

Annex 1:

Minutes of the Committee Sittings

13THPARLIAMENT5THSESSION

MINUTESOFTHESEVENTEENTH(17TH)SITTING OFTHE STANDING PMINCOMMITTEEROOM6,BUNGETOWER

MEMBERSPRESENT

• 1.Sen.Jackson K.Arap Mandago,EGH,MP

• -Chairperson

2. Sen.Mariam Sheikh Omar,MP

• -Vice-Chairperson

3. Sen.Richard Onyonka,MP

• -Member

• 4.Sen.TabithaMutinda,CBS,MP

• -Member

• 5.Sen.Joseph GithukuKamau,MP

• -Member

6. Sen.HamidaKibwana,MP

• -Member

• 7.Sen.VincentKiprono Chemitei Cheburet,MP

• -Member

ABSENTWITHAPOLOGY

• 1.Sen.Justice(Rtd)StewartMadzayo,EGH,MP

• -Member

• 2.Sen.Ledama Olekina,CBS,MP

• -Member

SENATESECRETARIAT

• 1.Mr.Humphrey Ringera

3. Mr.David Ngamate 2. Mr.AmosKiangwe 4. Mr.Gilbert Juma 5. Ms.Lilian Onyari

• 6.Mr.David Munene
• 7.Mr.Ian Otieno
• 8.Mr.JackLemeteki

MIN/SEN/SCH/084/2026

• -SeniorResearch Officer
• -Senior ClerkAssistant
• -ClerkAssistant
• -Legal Counsel
• -Fiscal Analyst
• -Research Officer
• -AudioRecording Officer
• -MediaRelations Officer

PRELIMINARIES

The Chairperson called themeetingtoorder attwenty-fiveminutespasteleveno'clock and theproceedingscommencedwithawordofprayerfollowedbyabriefintroductionof thosepresent.

MIN/SEN/SCH/085/2026

ADOPTIONOFTHEAGENDA

TheagendaofthemeetingwasadoptedaslistedbelowuponbeingproposedbySen. HamidaKibwana,MPand seconded bySen.Joseph Githuku,MP.

• 1.Preliminaries;
• a)Prayer
• b)Introductions
• 2.Adoption of theAgenda;
• 3.Confirmation ofMinutes;
• 4.Matters arising;
• 5.Consideration andAdoptionof CommitteeReport on theAutismManagementBill, 2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025)(CommitteePaperNo.171);
• 6.Any other Business;and
• 7.Adjournment/DateoftheNextMeeting

MIN/SEN/SCH/086/2026 CONFIRMATIONOFMINUTES

• 1.TheMinutesofthe13tmeetingheldonThursday,19thMarch,2026wereconfirmed as a true record of the proceedings having been proposed by Sen.TabithaMutinda,CBS, MPand secondedbySen.HamidaKibwana,MP;and
• 2.TheMinutesofthe16thmeetingheldonThursday,26thMarch,2026wereconfirmedas a true record of the proceedings having been proposed by Sen.Hamida Kibwana,MP andsecondedbySen.MariamSheikhOmar,MP
• 1.TheSecretariat presented the CommitteeReport on theAutismManagementBill,2025 (SenateBills No.19 of 2025)ascontainedinCommittee Paper No.171 for considerationandadoption.
• 2.Duringits consideration theCommitteeobserved that-
• a)t thereisneed tohave alegalprovisionthatmakesitadutyofhealthcarefacilities educationinstitutionsandcommunityhealthpromoterstoidentify,referandassist parentstoregisterchildrenwith autismwithin aspecifiedperiodafterdiagnosis and identification;

| MIN/SEN/SCH/087/2026 | MATTERS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES | |-------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Therewerenomattersarising. MIN/SEN/SCH/088/2026 | CONSIDERATIONANDADOPTION OF COMMITTEEREPORTONTHEAUSTISM MANAGEMENTBILL,2025(SENATEBILLS NO.190F2025)(C0MMITTEEPAPERNO.171) |

• b)theBill ascurrently drafted,adopts apredominantlymedical andwelfare-oriented approachtoautism,withoutadequatelygroundingitintheconstitutionalrights frameworkorKenya'sobligationsunder theUnitedNations Convention on the Rights of Personswith Disabilities(UNCRPD).The Bill doesnot explicitly prohibit discrimination againstpersons with autism in education,healthcare, employment,or access topublicservicesand doesnotframe autisticpersons as rights-holders.ThisisinconsistentwithArticle27andArticle54of the Constitution andwiththeCRPD'ssocialmodelofdisability;
• theBillisheavilyfocused onearlychildhoodandscreeninginchildren,withno provision for adultswith autism.This omissionis particularly significant given thatmanyKenyanswith autism are diagnosed in adulthood,orhavenotbeen diagnosed atall,and thatautismis alifelongconditionrequiringsupportacross the full lifespan includingin adolescence,adulthood,employment,independent living,and ageing;
• d itrecognizes only"medicalpractitioners"and does notmention occupational therapists,speech andlanguage therapists,physiotherapists,clinical psychologists, behavioral therapists,or specialneeds educators whoare critical experts in the managementofautism.Thisisasignificantgap,aseffectiveautismmanagement requiresmultidisciplinary andinterdisciplinary approach;
• e)theprovisionsunder Clause8 arenarrow,limited to curriculumintegration of autism awareness in teacher training,and donotimpose enforceable obligations on schoolsregardinginclusive education.There isnoprovisionforIndividualized Education Plans (IEPs), learning support or shadow teachers, sensory accommodations,alternative assessment arrangements,class size limits within autism units,oracomplaintsmechanismfor familieswhosechildrenareexcluded orinadequately supported.It basicallyignores thewidelyrecognized conceptof reasonableaccommodations.Thisleavesautisticlearnerswithouteffectivelegal protectionoftheirrighttoinclusiveeducationunderArticle54oftheConstitution;
• f theroleofcaregivers,provideforcaregiver trainingframeworks,establishrespite careservices,orguaranteepsychosocialorfinancial supportforcaregivers.Given the research evidence that thevastmajorityofcaregiver-parents experience significantmental healthburden,financialstress,andsocialisolation,the absence ofstructuredcaregiversupport provisionsisa critical gap;
• g theKenyaInstituteof Special Education (KISE) should bedesignatedasthelead national institution for developing and deliveringstandardized training programmes for caregivers,including parents and guardians,ofpersons with autism,in collaboration with theMinistry ofHealth,county autism units and National Council of PersonswithDisabilities(NCPWD);

• h) that thereisneedfortheBill tohaveaprovisionthatmakesitadutyofhealthcare facilities,educationinstitutions andcommunityhealthpromoters toidentify,refer andassistparentstoregisterchildrenwithautismwithinaspecifiedperiodafter diagnosis andidentification.Consequently,the Committeenoted that thereisneed for criminalizationof thehabit orparents andorguardiansconcealingpersonswith autismastodenythemthebenefitsprovidedunderthislaworanyotherlaw.
• 3.UpondeliberationtheCommitteeexpressedsatisfactionwiththeAutismManagement legal and policy framework on autism in Kenya.Accordingly,theCommittee recommended thattheSenate approvestheAutismManagementBill,2025,subject to the amendmentssetoutitsreport.
• 4.The CommitteeReportonitsconsiderationof theAutismManagementBill(Senate Bills No.19 of 2025)wasunanimouslypassed afterbeingproposed by Sen.Mariam SheikhOmar,MPandsecondedbySen.TabithaMutinda,CBS,MP.

MIN/SEN/SCH/089/2026

ANYOTHERBUSINESS

• 1.TheCommitteewasinformed thattheinvitationlettertotheChiefExecutiveOfficer ofthe Social Health Authority(SHA)to attend themeetingof the Committee scheduledtotakeplaceonThursday23rdApril,2026hadbeensenttoherofficeand furtherthattheChiefExecutiveOfficerwasrequiredtosharetheoperationalreporton SHAin advanceforperusaland advancereading;and.

2. Memberswererequested toconfirm theirattendanceof the Committeeactivities scheduled to takeplaceduringtherecess andmostspecificallytheoversightvisitsto Nakuru,Baringo,ElgeyoMarakwet,Uasin Gishu andNandi Counties fromSunday 13tApril toSaturday,18th April,2026.

MIN/SEN/SCH/090/2026

ADJOURNMENT

There beingno other business,the meeting ended at fifteen minutes past one o'clock.The nextmeetingshallbeheldbynotice.

3

SIGNED....

......DATE....

SEN.JACKSONK.ARAPMANDAGO,EGH,MP (CHAIRPERSON,COMMITTEEONHEALTH)

13THPARLIAMENTI5THSESSION

MINUTES OF THETHIRTEENTH (13TH)SITTING OF THE STANDING COMMITTEEONHEALTHHELDON,THURSDAY 19THMARCH,2026 AT 12.00NOONINCOMMITTEEROOM4,BUNGETOWER

MEMBERSPRESENT

• 1.Sen.Jackson K.Arap Mandago,EGH,MP

-Chairperson

2. Sen.Justice(Rtd)StewartMadzayo,EGH,MP

• -Member

3. Sen.Richard Onyonka,MP

• -Member

• 4.Sen.Tabitha Mutinda,CBS,MP

• -Member

• 5.Sen.Hamida Kibwana,MP

• -Member

• 6.Sen.Joseph Githuku,MP

• -Member

ABSENTWITHAPOLOGY

• 1.Sen.MariamSheikh Omar,MP

• -Vice-Chairperson

• 2.Sen.Ledama Olekina,CBS,MP

• -Member

• 3.Sen.VincentKiprono Chemitei,MP

• -Member

SENATESECRETARIAT

• 1.Mr.Humphrey Ringera
• 2.Mr.AmosKiangwe
• 3.Mr.David Ngamate
• 4.Mr. Gilbert Juma
• 5.Mr.David Munene
• 6.Mr.Ian Otieno
• 7.Mr.JackLemeteki
• 8.Ms.Yvonne Momanyi
• 9.Mr.Ham Juma
• 10.Mr.IbrahimOdindo

INATTENDANCE

• 1.Dr.Sylvia MoraaaMochabo

• -Neurodivergents Society of Kenya

• -SeniorResearch Officer
• -Senior Clerk Assistant
• -ClerkAssistant
• -Legal Counsel
• -Research Officer
• -AudioRecordingOfficer
• -Media Officer
• -Legal Intern
• -Serjeant-at-Arms
• -Legal Intern

• Mr.Paul MugiKithaka

• -NeurodivergentsSocietyofKenya

3. Ms.Tabitha Tharao

• -NeurodivergentsSociety ofKenya

4. Mr.Daniel Sanoe

• -DeputyDirector,Programs-KenyaInstitute

ofSpecialEducation

5. Mr.Henry Eshitubi

• -Lecturer,KenyaInstitute of Special Education

6. Ms.NadiaMuthoni

• -Communications Officer,

KenyaInstituteof Special Education

7. Ms.Emily Limisi

• -Assistant Director,DisabilityServices

National CouncilforPersonwithDisabilities

• 8.Ms.Ivy Mbinya

SeniorDisabilityServices Officer

• -National Council forPersonwithDisabilities

MIN/SEN/SCH/061/2026

PRELIMINARIES

TheChairpersoncalled themeetingtoorderattwenty-fiveminutespasteleveno'clockand theproceedingscommencedwithawordofprayerfollowedbybriefintroductionofthose present.

MIN/SEN/SCH/062/2026

ADOPTIONOFTHEAGENDA

Theagendaof themeetingwasadopted aslistedbelowuponbeingproposedbySen HamidaKibwana,MPandseconded bySen.Richard Onyonka,MP.

• 1.Preliminaries;
• 2.Adoption of the Agenda;
• 3.Confirmation of thepreviousMinutes;
• 4.Matters arising;
• 6.Any other Business;and
• 5.Consideration of the Autism Management Bill,2025(SenateBillsNo.19 of2025) (CommitteePaperNo.166);
• 7.Adjournment/Date of theNextMeeting

MIN/SEN/SCH/063/2026 CONFIRMATIONOFTHEMINUTES

TheMinutes of the5thmeeting held onThursday,19thFebruary,2026 at 11.00 a.m.were confirmed as a truerecord of theproceedings having been proposed by Sen.Hamida Kibwana,MP andseconded bySen.Richard Onyonka,MP.

MIN/SEN/SCH/064/2026 MATTERSARISINGFROMTHEMINUTES

Therewere no matters arisingfrom the above minutes.

MIN/SEN/SCH/065/2026

| CONSIDERATION OF AUTISM | THE | |-----------------------------------|---------------------------------| | MANAGEMENTBILL,2025(SENATEBILLSNO | | | | 19OF2025)(C0MMITTEEPAPERN0.166) |

• 1.TheChairpersoninvitedtheNational Council forPersonwithDisabilities(NCPWD) tomaketheirpresentations.

However,theCommitteeobservedthatNCPWDwasrepresentedbytheDeputyChief ExecutiveOfficerinsteadofthesubstantiveChiefExecutiveOfficer.Upon deliberation,theCommitteedeclinedtherepresentationanddirectedthatitwouldonly receivesubmissionsfromtheCEO.

• TheChairpersonthereafterinvitedtherepresentativesfromNeurodivergentSocietyof KenyaledbyDr.SylviaMochabotoclarifytheirsubmissionsandpresented supplementaryinformation as requestedby the Committee.The Committee was consequentlyinformed that:
• a) ThatAutismisregardedasmentalconditionratherthanadisability;
• b ThattherewereprovisionsintheBill thatrequiresubstantial amendment;
• That theBill inits current form is inadequate,overly medicalized,and inconsistent withthehuman-rightsmodelofdisability;
• d) That the Bill lacks cross-sectoral integration, including education, social protection, rehabilitation, livelihood access, and anti-discrimination measures;
• e Key provisions duplicateexistinglaws(PersonswithDisabilitiesAct,Mental HealthAct) without strengthening them or addressing real systemic gaps;
• The Bill introduces risks of segregation, compulsory medicalization, and g bureaucraticstructuresthatdonotreflectlivedrealities;and
• Terminology used ("management","prevention") is stigmatizing and aligned with outdatedmedicalframeworks,notcontemporarydisabilityinclusionstandards;
• h TheBillwasdevelopedwithoutmeaningful consultation,therebyviolatingArticle 10of the Constitution(publicparticipation)
• 3.The Committeewasfurtherinformed that theBill should undergosubstantial clauseby clauseamendmentonthefollowingareas:
• a)Clause2:InterpretationthatthedefinitiontocoverBroadendefinitiontocover neurodevelopmentaldisabilitywithintheautismspectrumincludingcommon comorbidconditions.
• 6 Clause3:ObjectsoftheBillthatignoreseducation,andfocusesmostlyon screening,diagnosisandmedicalmanagement.
• Clauses4and5ontheResponsibilitiesofNationalandCountyGovernmentsthat negatesmulti sectoralapproachto themanagementofAutism.
• (P Clause6:EstablishmentofAutism centres thatare embeddedinCommunity structures.
• e) Clause7:Education andInformation assertingthattheBillprovidesforawareness campaigns"and doesnot addressreal barriers.Notingthat theBill hasnoreference toinclusive pedagogy, classroom accommodations,assistive devices,IEPs, sensory-friendlyenvironments,or transitionprograms.
• Clause8:ThatteachertrainingandSyllabuswasnotcompetencybased and that the it should Include autism in pre-service training,continuous professional development,andlicensingframeworks.

• Clause9:RelationshipwiththeDisabilityAct thattheBilldoesnotclarify harmonizationwiththenewPersonswithDisabilitiesAct,2025.ThattheBill should befully aligned andnotin contradictionwith thePersonswithDisabilities Act,2025
• h Clause10:Regulation-makingpowersshouldbemulti-sectoral rather thanvested entirely on theCabinetSecretary.

Deliberations and Resolutions

• 4.Upon deliberationsfollowing the submissionsof the stakeholders,the Committee the Committeeresolved-
• a)Toseeksubmissions from the Cabinet Secretary,Ministry ofEducation on the implementationstatusoftheSectorPolicyforLearnersandTraineeswith Disabilities; and;
• b) To undertake a multi-sectoral approach in processing the Autism Management Bill, 2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025)byengaging theMinistry ofEducation,Ministry of Labour andSocial Security andMinistryofFinance

MIN/SEN/SCH/066/2026 ANYOTHERBUSINESS

The Committeeresolved to hold a two-dayretreat inKiambu County from Sunday22nd March2026toconsider theCommitteeReportson theAssistedReproductiveTechnology Bill,2022(NationalAssemblyBills,No.61of2022) and thePetitionby theKenyaUnion of Clinical Officers.

MIN/SEN/SCH/067/2026 ADJOURNMENT

Therebeingno other business,themeeting ended at five minutespast two o'clockin the afternoon.The next meeting shall be held on notice.

SIGNED..

.DATE...

SEN.JACKSONK.RAPMANDAGO,EGH,MP (CHAIRPERSON,COMMITTEEONHEALTH)

13THPARLIAMENTI5THSESSION

MINUTESOFTHESIXTH(6TH)SITTINGOFTHESTANDINGCOMMITTEE ON HEALTH HELD ON THURSDAY,12THMARCH,2026AT 11.00 AM AT COMMITTEEROOM6,BUNGETOWER,PARLIAMENTBUILDINGS

MEMBERSPRESENT

• 1.Sen.JacksonK.ArapMandago,EGH,MP

-Chairperson

• 2.Sen.Mariam Sheikh Omar,MP

-Vice-Chairperson

• 3.Sen.Justice(Rtd)StewartMadzayo,EGH,MP

• -Member

4. Sen.Richard Onyonka,MP

• -Member

5. Sen.Tabitha Mutinda,CBS,MP

• -Member

• 6.Sen.Joseph Githuku Kamau,MP

• -Member

ABSENTWITHAPOLOGY

• 1.Sen.Ledama Olekina,CBS,MP

• -Member

• -Member

• 2.Sen.HamidaKibwana,MP

• -Member

• 3.Sen.VincentKipronoChemitei,MP

SENATESECRETARIAT

• 1.Mr.Humphrey Ringera

• -SeniorResearch Officer

• 2.Mr.AmosKiangwe

• -Senior ClerkAssistant

• 3.Mr.David Ngamate

• -ClerkAssistant

• -Legal Counsel

• 4.Mr.Gilbert Juma

5. Ms.Lilian Onyari

• -Fiscal Analyst

6. Mr.David Munene

• -Research Officer

• 7.Mr.Joseph Otieno

• -AudioRecording Officer

• 8.Mr.Jack Lemeteki

• -Media Officer

• 9.Mr.Ibrahim Odindo

• -Serjeant atArms

• 10.Mr.HamJuma

• Legal Intern (DLS)

• 11.Ms.YvonneMomanyi

• Legal Intern (DLS)

MIN/SEN/SCH/031/2026

PRELIMINARIES

The Chairperson called themeetingtoorderatfifteen minutespasteleveno'clock and the proceedingscommencedwithawordofprayerfollowedbybriefintroductionof those present.

MIN/SEN/SCH/032/2026

ADOPTIONOFTHEAGENDA

The agenda of the meeting was adopted as listed below uponbeingproposed bySen. Tabitha Mutinda,CBS,MP and seconded by Sen.Richard Onyonka,MP.

• 2.Adoption of the Agenda;
• 1.Preliminaries;
• 3.Confirmation of the previous Minutes;

5. Consideration and adoption of the Committee Report on the County oversight and networking engagement in Kiambu County;

• 4.Matters arising;

6. Consideration of the Autism Management Bill,2025(Senate Bills No.19 of 2025) (CommitteePaper No.165);

• 8.Adjournment/Date of theNext Meeting
• 7.Any otherBusiness;and

MIN/SEN/SCH/033/2026 CONFIRMATIONOFTHEMINUTES

• 1.TheMinutesof the3rdmeetingheld on Thursday,19thFebruary,2026at 11.00am were confirmed asa truerecord of theproceedings having been proposed bySen. Mariam Sheikh Omar,MPand seconded by Sen.Tabitha Mutinda,CBS,MP;

2. TheMinutesof the4thmeetingheldonTuesday24thMarch,2026at11.00amwere confirmedas a truerecordoftheproceedingshavingbeenproposed by,Sen.Vincent Kipronon Chemitei,MP andseconded bySen.MariamSheikh Omar,MP;

MIN/SEN/SCH/034/2026

CONSIDERATIONANDADOPTION OFTHE COMMITTEEREPORTONTHEIiCOUNTY OVERSIGHTANDNETWORKINGINKIAMBU COUNTY(COMMITTEEPAPERNO.164

• 1.TheSecretariatpresented theCommitteeReport on oversightvisit toKiambu County that tookplace on 10hNovember,2025as contained in CommitteePaper No.164for consideration and adoption;and
• 2.Following consideration,theCommitteereport was adopted without amendments after beingproposed bySen.Tabitha Mutinda,CBS,MP and seconded bySen.Justice (Rtd) Stewart Madzayo,EGH,MP.

MIN/SEN/SCH/035/2026

• 1.TheCommitteewasinformed thattheconsiderationoftheAutismManagementBill, 2025(SenateBillsNo.19of2025)hascommendedduring thepreviousCommittee meeting.Duringthesaidmeeting,theCommitteehadfurthercommenced consideration of thestakeholdersubmissionscontainedinthematrixascontainedin CommitteePaper No.165;

CONSIDERATION OF THE AUTISM MANAGEMENTBILL,2025(SENATEBILLS NO.19OF2025)(C0MMITTEEPAPERNO.165)

• 2.TheCommitteeconsidered thematrixonstakeholdersubmissionsandobserved that, theAutismManagementBilldoesnotseektoreplacetheprotectionin thePersonswith DisabilitiesAct,2025.TheBillisdesigned asatargeted,sectorspecificsupplement that fillsthegapleftbythePWDAct,2025bynotprovidingforautism'suniquediagnostic, clinical and supportneeds.Indeed,thePWDAct,2025currently coverspersonswith autismunder general provisionsbut lacks autisms specificprovisions;
• 4.However,theCommitteeobserved thatseveralprovisions ontheBilladdresssubject matter that thePWDActalreadycoversunderitsgeneralframework.Forinstance, centers atreferral hospitals andcountrylevel4and5hospitals,establishmentofautisms units andmeasuresfor affordablemedical servicesforpersonswith autism.On the other hand,PWD Act section 24(right tohealth)already provides that,persons with disabilities have the right to thehighest attainable standard of health without discriminationandthatpersonswithdisabilitiesareentitledtofreemedicalcareand treatmentinpublichealthinstitutions;
• 3.The Committee further observedthat the AutismManagementBill,2025seeks to addressQverlapwith existinglegislation throughcomplimentaryclauserather than seeking toreplaceorconflictwith theexisting-framework.TheAutismManagement Bill,2025addresses educational primarily througha public health and awarenesslens;
• 5.Several provisionsin theAutismManagementBill,2025addressissues that are already substantivelycovered,ordirectlymandatedbyexistingnationalpolicies andstrategies. TheCommitteeobservedthattheBillwouldthereforebenefitfromexplicitcrossreferencingto theseinstrumentstoensurecoherence,avoidduplicationofstructures and anchorimplementationwithintheexistingpolicy ecosystem.
• a.toseeksubmissionsfrom the CabinetSecretary,MinistryofHealth and Cabinet Secretary,MinistryofEducationontheprovisionsoftheAutismManagementBill, 2025(SenateBillsNo.19 of2025;and
• 6.Following its deliberations,theCommitteeresolved-
• b.to invitethe ChiefExecutive Officersof theNationalCouncilof Personswith Disabilities (NCPWD) and Kenya Institute for Special Education (KISE) to a meetingoftheCommitteetodeliberateontheprovisionpftheAutismManagement Bill,2025(SenateBills No.19 of 2025);

MIN/SEN/SCH/036/2026

ANYOTHERBUSINESS

Members confirmed their attendance to the Committee activities scheduled for the weekendbeingoversightvisittoLamu CountyonFriday13thandSaturday14thMarch, 2026 and the working retreatonMonday 16thMarch,2026inKiambu to consider the Assisted ReproductiveTechnologiesBill,2022(National AssembliesBill No.61 of2022).

MIN/SEN/SCH/037/2026

ADJOURNMENT

There beingno other business, the meeting ended at one o'clock. The next meeting shall be held on notice.

93

.DATE....

SIGNED

SEN.JACKSONK.ARAPMANDAGO,EGH,MP (CHAIRPERSON,COMMITTEEONHEALTH)

13THPARLIAMENT5THSESSION

MINUTESOFTHEFIFTH(STH)SITTINGOFTHESTANDINGCOMMITTEE ON HEALTHHELD ON THURSDAY,5TH MARCH,2026 AT 11.00 AM AT COMMITTEEROOM6,BUNGETOWER,PARLIAMENTBUILDINGS

MEMBERSPRESENT

• 1.Sen.MariamSheikh Omar,MP
• 2.Sen.Justice(Rtd)StewartMadzayo,EGH,MP
• 3.Sen.Richard Onyonka,MP
• 4.Sen.Hamida Kibwana,MP

ABSENTWITHAPOLOGY

• 1.Sen.JacksonK.ArapMandago,EGH,MP

2. Sen.LedamaOlekina,CBS,MP 3. Sen.Tabitha Mutinda,CBS,MP 4. Sen.Joseph GithukuKamau,MP

• 5.Sen.VincentKiprono Chemitei,MP

SENATESECRETARIAT

• 1.Mr.Humphrey Ringera
• 2.Mr.Amos Kiangwe
• 3.Mr.David Ngamate
• 4.Mr.Gilbert Juma
• 5.Ms.Lilian Onyari
• 6.Mr. David Munene
• 7.Mr.Joseph Otieno
• 8.Mr.Jack Lemeteki

MIN/SEN/SCH/025/2026

• -Vice-Chairperson
• -Member
• -Member
• -Member
• -Chairperson
• -Member
• -Member
• -Member
• -Member
• -SeniorResearch Officer
• -Senior ClerkAssistant
• -ClerkAssistant
• Legal Counsel
• -Fiscal Analyst
• -Research Officer
• -AudioRecording Officer
• -Media Officer

PRELIMINARIES

Themeetingwascalledtoorder attwenty-fiveminutespasteleveno'clockandthe proceedingscommencedwithawordofprayerfollowedbybriefintroductionofthose present.

MIN/SEN/SCH/026/2026

ADOPTIONOFTHEAGENDA

Theagenda of themeetingwas adopted aslistedbelowuponbeingproposedbySen. Richard Onyonka,MP and seconded by Sen.Justice (Rtd)Stewart Madzayo,EGH,MP.

• 2.Adoption of the Agenda;
• 1.Preliminaries;
• 3.Confirmation of thepreviousMinutes;
• 5.Consideration of theAutismManagementBill,2025(Senate BillsNo.19of 2025) (CommitteePaperNo.165);
• 4.Matters arising
• 6.Any other Business;and
• 7.Adjournment/Date of theNext Meeting

MIN/SEN/SCH/027/2026

CONFIRMATIONOFTHEMINUTES

Confirmation of Minuteswaspended to thenext CommitteeMeeting.

MIN/SEN/SCH/028/2026

CONSIDERATION OF THE AUTISM MANAGEMENT BILL,2025(SENATEBILLS NO.19OF2025)(C0MMITTEEPAPERNO.165)

• 1.The Secretariat presented theAutism Management Bill,2025(Senate BillsNo.19 of 2025) ascontainedinCommitteePaperNo.165forconsideration.
• 2.The Committeewas informed that theAutism Management Bill(SenateBillsNo.19 of 2025)wasreadaFirstTimeintheSenateonWednesday,26thNovember,2025,and thereafterstoodcommittedtotheCommitteeonHealthforconsideration.
• 3.The Committeewasinformed thatinaccordancewith theprovisionsofArticle,118of the Constitution and standing order 145 (5)of the Senate Standing Orders,the Committeeinvitedinterestedmembersofthepublictosubmit anyrepresentations that theymayhave on theAutismManagement Bill(SenateBills No.19of2025)byway of written memoranda.The memoranda were to be received on or beforeMonday,22nd December, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
• 4.The Committeewasfurtherinformed thatbycloseof thepublicparticipationperiod a totalof sixty-six(66)submissionshad beenreceived on theBill.Thesesubmissions intoamatrixfortheCommittee'sconsideration.
• 5.The Committeeobserved thattheprincipal objectof theAutismManagementBill, 2025,istoprovideforanintegrated andcoordinated approach tothemanagementof autisminKenya.TheBillseekstoestablishacomprehensivelegalframeworkforearly screening,diagnosis,management and support of persons with autism spectrum disorder (AsD),while promoting public awareness,research,and the allocation of adequateresourcestowardsautismprograms.

• 6.TheCommitteeobserved thataccordingtoWHOAutismspectrumdisorders(ASD) alsoreferredto asAutismreferstoadiversegroupofconditions.Theyarecharacterized bysomedegreeofdifficultywithsocialinteractionandcommunication.Other characteristicsare atypicalpatternsofactivities andbehaviours,such as difficultywith transitionfrom one activity toanother,a focus on details and unusual reactionsto sensations.The abilities and needs of autisticpeople vary and can evolve over time. Whilesomepeoplewith autismcanliveindependently,othershaveseveredisabilities andrequirelife-longcareandsupport.
• 7.TheCommitteefurtherobserved thatautismoftenhasanimpactoneducationand employmentopportunities.In addition,thedemandson familiesprovidingcareand supportcanbesignificant.Societal attitudesand thelevel ofsupportprovided bylocal andnational authorities areimportantfactorsdetermining the qualityof lifeofpeople withautism.
• 8.The Committeeobserved thataccording totheNationalCouncil forPersonswith DisabilityAnalytical Monograph onAutism(2024),approximately 75millionpeople worldwidehaveautismspectrum disorder,representing1%oftheglobalpopulation. TheWHOestimatesthatoneoutof59childrenarebornwithautismandrelated developmental disabilities,making this.asignificantpublichealth concern thatrequires dedicatedlegislativeattention.
• 9.The Committeefurtherobserved thataccordingtoareportdonebytheAutismSociety ofKenyaintheyear2007,aboutonein every 25children suffer fromAutism.This accountsfor about4%of thegeneral populationinKenya.However,sincethere isno central data collection Centrefor autism casesinKenya,the statisticsmay not quite accurate and therefore affecting thepolicy andbudgetaryissues towards autism.
• 10.TheCommitteeobserved that thechallengessurroundingmanagementofAutismin Kenya include late diagnoses,a shortage of trained professionals,limited access to specialized education and therapeutic services,and inadequate data on autism prevalence.There isno comprehensivelegal framework specifically addressing the needs ofpersons with autism,resulting in poor service delivery and insufficient coordinationbetweennational andcountygovernments.
• 11.The Committeeobserved thatcurrently,personswith autism are coveredunder the generalprovisions ofthePersonsLivingwithDisabilityAct,2025(ActNo.4of2025), whichprovidesfortherightsandprotectionofpersonslivingwithdisabilities. However,thislegislationdoesnotprovide specificprovisionsfortheunique diagnostic, management andsupportneedsofpersonswith autismspectrumdisorder.Thelackof autism-specific legislation has resulted ininadequate specialized services,poor diagnosis,and insufficient trainingformedicalpractitionersandcaregiversdealingwith autism.

• 12.Upon deliberations,the Committee observed that there is need to carry out benchmarkingvisitsbothlocallyandinternationally toacquaint itselfwithhow different institutions,other parliaments and governments have structured similar frameworks in practice,including how they design autism strategies,regulate diagnostic centres,set staffingnorms,integrate autism in teacher training and health curriculaandrunnational databases.

MIN/SEN/SCH/029/2026 ANYOTHERBUSINESS

Committee resolvedtofast-trackconsiderationof thependinglegislativebusiness especially thatwhichissubjectto timelinesprovided undertheStandingOrderssuch as the two(2)Bills which are already listed in the OrderPaperfor Second Reading.

MIN/SEN/SCH/030/2026 ADJOURNMENT

There beingno other business,themeeting ended at one oclock.The next meeting shall be held on notice.

?

SIGNER...

....DATE...

SEN.JACKSONK.ARAPMANDAGO,EGH,MP CHAIRPERSON,STANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

Annex 2:

The Autism Management Bill, 2025 (Senate Bills No.19 of 2025)

SPECIALISSUE

KenyaGazetteSupplementNo.163(SenateBillsNo.19)

REPUBLICOFKENYA

KENYAGAZETTESUPPLEMENT

SENATEBILLS,2025

NAIROBI,26thSeptember,2025

CONTENT

BillforIntroductionintotheSenate

PAGE

TheAutismManagementBill,2025

257

257

THEAUTISMMANAGEMENTBILL,2025 ARRANGEMENTOFCLAUSES

Clause

• 1-Short title.
• 2-Interpretation.
• 3-Objects of the Act.
• 4-Responsibilitiesof theNational Government.
• 5-Responsibilitiesof thecountygovernments.
• 6-Establishmentofautismunits.
• 7-Education andinformation.
• 8-Teachertrainingandsyllabus.
• 9-ProvisionsofthePersonsLivingwithDisabilityAct.
• 10-Regulations

THEAUTISMMANAGEMENTBILL,2025

ABillfor

ANACTofParliamenttoprovideforan integrated and coordinated approach on the managementof autism;and forconnectedpurposes

ENACTEDbytheParliamentofKenya,asfollows-

• 1.ThisActmaybe cited as theAutismManagement Act,2025.
• 2.In this Act-

"Autism"means the Autism SpectrumDisorder (ASD);

• "Cabinet Secretary"means the Cabinet Secretary responsibleformattersrelatingtohealth;

undertheMedical PractitionersandDentistsActasa medicalpractitioner;and

"executive committee member"means the county executivecommitteememberresponsibleformatters relatingtohealth.

• 3.Theobjects of theAct are to-
• (a)provide a framework for integrated approach towards the early screening, diagnosis, management andsupport ofpersonswith autism;
• (b)promoteaccess toqualityandaffordable diagnostic and management services for persons with autism;
• (c)toprovideforthedevelopmentofanational informationmanagementsystemfor autism;
• (d)provideforcontinuoustraining formedical practitioners and caregiversinrelation to autism;
• (e)promote public awareness about the causes, managementandmeansofpreventionofautism andtoensureaccesstoinformationrelatingto autisminaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthe Access toInformationAct;

Short title.

Interpretation,

Cap253.

Objccts of thc Act.

• (f)providefor thesupport ofpersonswithautismand caregiversofpersonswith autism;
• (g)ensureallocationsof adequate resources to programmes geared towards the diagnostic, management andsupportofpersonswith autism;and
• (h)promoteresearch anddisseminationofinformation on the causes,diagnostic and management of autism.
• 4.(1)For therealisation of the objectives set out undersection3,theNational Governmentshall-
• (a)develop,establish,co-ordinate and monitor the implementationofnationalstandardsandpolicies relating to autism;
• (b)formulate andmonitor a National AutismStrategy thatalignswithinternationalbestpractices;
• (c)establish National Diagnostic Centers in all existingreferralhospitalsinordertoensureearly detectionandmanagementofautism;
• (d)undertake capacity building for various stakeholders including continuous training of medicalpractitionersandcaregivers;
• (e)promote public awareness by undertaking continuous public educationand sensitisation campaigns to eradicatestigma,promote understanding of autism,andfoster amore inclusive society;
• promoteresearchandinnovationandestablish linkageswithinternationalresearch agencies for the adoptionofbestpractices onautismdetection, managementandsupport;
• (g)developaframeworktoincreaseaccessibilityof affordable medical services for persons with autism;
• (h)incollaborationwith thecountygovernments and othernon-stateactors,developanationaldatabase toensurethataccuratefiguresofpersonswith autism are obtainedin the country forpurposes of planning;

Cap7M

Responsibilities of the National Government.

• (i)provide technical assistance andcapacitybuilding to countygovernments;and
• ensure that education and information disseminationon the prevention,treatment and managementofautismand the careofpersons withautismshallformpartofhealthcareservices byhealthcareproviders.

(2)The Cabinet Secretary shall set aside specific allocationfromthenationalhealthbudgettosupportautism activities including early screening programs,diagnostic infrastructure,trainingofprofessionals and caregivers,and publicawareness campaigns.

5.(1)For therealisation of theobjectives set out undersection3,thecountygovernments shall-

• (a)implement the national standards and policies relatingtoautism;
• (b)formulate and monitor a county autism strategy that alignswith thenational strategy;
• (c)establish CountyDiagnostic Centersin all existing countylevel4and5hospitalsinordertoensure earlydetection andmanagementofautism;
• (d)establish community-levelcaregiversupport groups;
• (e)establishacountydatabase toensure thataccurate figuresofpersonswithautismareobtainedin the county for purposesofplanningand sharethe informationwiththenationalgovernmentfor purposes of updating the national data base;
• (f)putinplacemeasuresforaccessibilityof affordablemedicalservicesfor personswith autismwithinthecountyhospitals.

(2)Thecountyexecutivecommitteemembershall set asidespecificallocationfromthecountyhealthbudgetto supportautism activities including early screening programs, diagnostic infrastructure, training of professionals and caregivers,and public awareness campaigns.

6.(l)The Cabinet secretaryandeachcounty executivecommitteemembershall- Responsibilities of thecounty governments.

Establishment of Autism units.

• (a)establishan autism unit within the ministryof healthortherelevantcountydepartmentmandated todeal withmattersrelating topublichealth;and
• (b)ensureadiagnosticcentreis staffedwith trained professionals and appropriate diagnostic tools.
• (2)An autism unitshallberesponsiblefor-
• (a)collectionandcollatingdataonautismprevalence atthenational andcountylevelrespectively;
• (b)establishingandupdating thenationalandcounty databaserespectively.
• (c)Co-ordinating all the autism programs in the area ofoperationincluding trainingandpublic awareness campaigns;and
• (d)perform all suchotherthingsor acts asdirectedby the Cabinet secretary or the county executive committeemember.

(3)The county autism unitsshallperiodically share datawith thenationalgovernmentforpurposesofupdating the national database.

7.Thenationalgovernmentand countygovernments, incollaborationwithstakeholdersshallthroughtheautism units-

(1)promotepublicawareness about the causes,means ofprevention,treatment and management of autism through a comprehensive nation-wide education and informationcampaign.

(2)conduct education andinformation campaignsin schools,institutionsoflearningand inallcommunities throughoutKenya.

(3)provide training,sensitizationand awareness programmesontheprevention,treatmentandmanagement ofautism to-

• (a)medicalpractitioners;
• (b)community andsocialworkers;
• (c)educators;and
• (d)otherstakeholdersinvolvedinthedisseminationof informationtothepubliconautismprevention, treatmentandmanagement.

Education and information.

(4)ensuretheinvolvement tand participationof individualsandgroupsaffectedbyautismintheeducation andinformationprograms.

(5)Ensurethattheinformationprovidedunderthis sectioncoversissues such as support and attitudes towards affectedpersons andpsychologicalsupportforcaregivers.

8.(1)The KenyaInstituteofCurriculum Developmcntshall-

• (a)ensure that autism awareness isintegrated in both pre-service and in-service training.
• (b)developatrainingcurriculum tobeintegratedinto syllabusesonthemanagementofautisminorder toensurethecareofpersonswithautismis taught atall levelsofeducation.

9.Inadditionalto theprovisionsofthisAct,persons with autism shall enjoy all the rights,protection and privilegesasprovidedforunderthePersonsLivingwith DisabilityAct,2025andotherrelevantlaws.

10.The Cabinet Secretary may,in consultation with the Councilof Governors,makeregulationsforthebetter carryingoutoftheprovisionsofthisAct.

Teacher training and syllabus.

Cap211A

Provisionsof thc Persons Living withDisability Act.

Regulations

MEMORANDUMOFOBJECTSANDREASONS

StatementoftheObjects andReasonsfortheBill

The principleobjectof theBill istoprovidefor thediagnostic, managementandsupportofpersonswithautism.TheBillisanchored in Article43(1)(a),oftheConstitutionwhichguaranteeseveryindividualthe righttothehighestattainablestandardofhealth.

AccordingtotheAnalyticalMonograph onAutismconductedbythe National Council for Personswith Disability(NCPWD)(2024),itis estimatedthatnearly75millionpeoplehaveautismspectrumdisorder, which represents 1%of theworld'spopulation.The World Health Organization(WHO)estimatesthatoneoutof59childrenarebornwith AutismandrelatedDevelopmentalDisabilitieswithKenyahavingan estimated 402.57 per 100,000 persons with autism.Despite these numbers,autismawareness,diagnosis,andsupportsystemsremainlimited in Kenya,with challenges such as late diagnoses,a shortage of trained professionals,and limitedaccesstospecialized education.OnMay30, 2014theWHOpassed thefirsteverglobalAutismResolutiondubbedthe "ComprehensiveandCo-ordinatedEffortsfortheManagementofAutism Spectrum Disorder."The resolution was cosponsored by 50 states and receivedthe supportof allof the194membercountries at theannual assemblyoftheWHO.Kenyathereforeadoptedthisimportantinstrument.

Tosupporttheearlydetectioncomponent,theBillprovidesforthe hospitals.These centers will be staffed with trained professionalsand outfitted with appropriate diagnostic tools.the Bill alsomandates the Nationalgovernment and the countygovernment to establish autism units whichwillberesponsibleforco-ordinatingautismactivities andcollecting andmaintaining data,whichwill aidinnationalpolicy development and serviceplanning.

Inrecognising theimportance ofcapacitybuilding,theBillmandates trainingprogramsforkey stakeholders.Medicalpractitionerswillreceive specialised training on autism recognition andmanagement.Teachersand educationofficerswill be equipped with autism-inclusive teaching strategies,andautismawarenesswillbeintegratedintobothpre-service and in-service teacher training. Caregivers,including parents and guardians,will also receive training and psychosocial support,while countygovernmentswillberesponsibleforestablishingcommunity-level caregiversupportgroups.

TheBillmandatestheNational Governmentandcountygovernments throughtheautismUnitstooverseeimplementationandco-ordination efforts.The National Governmentwill develop national policies,set implementation standards,co-ordinate among government and nongovernmentstakeholders,andpromoteresearchandinnovationon autism. The Countygovernmentwill implement thepolicieswithincounties.

In addition to direct support measures,the Bill addresses the importanceofpublicawareness.It mandates that bothnational and county governments undertake continuous public education and sensitization amoreinclusivesociety.

Tofinance itsobjectives,theBill obligates theNationaland the county governments to ensure allocations of adequate resources to programmes geared towards the diagnostic,managementand support of persons with autism.;

Finally,the Bill empowers the Cabinet Secretary responsible for mattersrelatedtohealthtomakeregulationstooperationalisethe provisions of the Act.

Statementonthedelegationoflegislativepowersandlimitationof fundamentalrightsandfreedoms

The Bill propose to delegatelegislative powers to the Cabinet Secretaryinchargeofmattersrelatedtohealthtodevelopregulationsfor thebettercarryingoutoftheprovisions of theproposedlaw.TheBill does notlimitfundamentalrightsandfreedoms.

Statementof howtheBill concernscountygovernments

Underparagraph2ofPart2oftheFourthScheduletothe Constitution,countyhealthservicesincludingpromotionofprimaryhealth carearedevolvedfunctions.TheBill providesforthemanagementand supportofpersonslivingwithautism.

StatementthattheBillisnotamoneyBillwithin themeaningof Article114oftheConstitution

ThisBillisnotamoneyBill withinthemeaningofArticle114of the Constitution.

Dated the12thFebruary,2025.

KARENNYAMU,

Senator.

Annex 3:

The Bill Digest

PARLIAMENTOFKENYA THESENATE

SENATEBILLSDIGEST

THEAUTISMMANAGEMENTBILL,2025

(SENATEBILLSNO.19OF2025)

Sponsor:

Senator Karen Nyamu,M.P

Date of Publication:

26hSeptember,2025

Date of FirstReading:

26tNovember,2025

Committeereferredto:

Standing Committee onHealth

Type of Bill:

Ordinary Bill

1.PURPOSEOFTHEBILL

TheprincipalobjectoftheAutismManagementBill,2025,istoprovideforanintegrated establishacomprehensivelegalframeworkforearlyscreening,diagnosis,management andsupportofpersons with autism spectrum disorder(ASD),whilepromotingpublic awareness,research,and the allocation of adequateresourcestowards autismprograms.

2.BACKGROUNDOFTHEBILL

What isAutism?

AccordingtoWHOAutismspectrumdisorders(ASD)alsoreferred toasAutismrefersto a diversegroupofconditions.Theyarecharacterizedbysomedegreeofdifficultywith social interaction and communication.Other characteristics are atypical patternsof activitiesandbehaviours,suchas difficultywithtransitionfrom oneactivitytoanother,a focuson details andunusualreactionsto sensations.Theabilitiesandneedsof autistic people vary andcan evolve over time.While some people with autism canlive independently,others have severe disabilities andrequirelife-long care and support. Autismoftenhas animpact on educationand employment opportunities.Inaddition,the demands on families providing care and support can be significant.Societal attitudes and the level of supportprovided bylocal andnational authorities areimportantfactors determiningthequalityoflifeofpeoplewith autism.

Whatproblemissought tobeaddressedby theBill?

AccordingtotheNational CouncilforPersonswithDisabilityAnalyticalMonographon Autism(2024),approximately 75million people worldwidehave autism spectrum disorder,representing1%oftheglobalpopulation.TheWHOestimatesthatoneoutof59 children are born with autism andrelated developmental disabilities,making this a significantpublichealthconcernthatrequiresdedicatedlegislative attention.Accordingto a report doneby theAutismSocietyofKenyain theyear2007,about oneinevery25 childrensufferfromAutism.Thisaccountsforabout4%ofthegeneralpopulationin Kenya.Since there is no central data collection Centre for autism cases inKenya however, thestatistics arenotquite accurate and thereforeaffecting thepolicyandbudgetary issues towards autism inKenya.Thechallenges surroundingmanagementofAutisminKenya includelate diagnoses,a shortage oftrainedprofessionals,limitedaccess to specialized education and therapeuticservices,andinadequate dataonautismprevalence.Thereisno comprehensivelegal frameworkspecificallyaddressingtheneedsofpersonswithautism, resultinginpoor service delivery and insufficientcoordination between national and countygovernments.

Whatdoesthelawcurrentlyprovide?

Currently,personswithautismarecoveredunder thegeneralprovisionsofthePersons LivingwithDisability Act,2025(ActNo.4of2025),whichprovidesfortherightsand protection ofpersons livingwith disabilities.However,thislegislation doesnot provide specificprovisionsfor theuniquediagnostic,managementandsupportneedsofpersons with autism spectrum disorder.Thelackofautism-specificlegislationhasresultedin inadequate specialized services,poor diagnosis,and insufficient training for medical practitionersandcaregiversdealingwith autism.

WhytheBill

KenyaadoptedtheWorldHealthOrganization's2014globalAutismResolution titled "Comprehensive and Co-ordinated Effortsfor the Managementof Autism Spectrum Disorder,"whichwasco-sponsored by50 states andsupported by all194WHOmember countries.Togiveeffectto thisinternationalcommitment and addressthegapsindomestic legislation,thisBill seekstoestablish a comprehensivelegalframeworkspecificallyfor autismmanagement.

TheBillisanchoredinArticle43(i)(a)of theConstitution whichguaranteesevery individualtherighttothehighestattainablestandardofhealth.

3.OVERVIEWOFTHEBILL

Whatdoes theBill regulate?

TheBill providesfor thecomprehensive management ofautism(ASD)inKenya,covering early sreening,diagnosis,tratment,support services,data collection,training,public awareness,andresourceallocationatbothnationalandcountylevels.

Responsibilities of theNational Government

Clause4oftheBillmandatestheNationalGovernmentto-

• (a)develop,establish,coordinateandmonitor theimplementation of national standardsandpoliciesrelatingtoautism;
• (b)formulate andmonitor aNational AutismStrategythat alignswithinternational best practices;
• (c)establishNationalDiagnosticCentersin allexistingreferralhospitalsto ensure early detectionandmanagementofautism;
• (d)undertakecapacitybuilding through continuous trainingofmedicalpractitioners and caregivers;
• (e)promote publicawareness byundertaking continuouspublic education and sensitizationcampaignstoeradicatestigma andfosterinclusivity;
• (f)promoteresearchandinnovationandestablishlinkageswithinternationalresearch agencies;
• (g)developaframeworktoincreaseaccessibilityofaffordablemedicalservicesfor persons with autism;
• (h) in collaboration with county governments and non-state actors,develop a national databaseofpersonswith autismforplanningpurposes;
• (i) provide technical assistance and capacity building to county governments;and
• () ensure that education and information on autism prevention,treatment and managementformspart of healthcare services.

TheBill furtherrequires theCabinetSecretarytoset asidespecificallocationsfrom the nationalhealthbudget to support autism prevention activities including early screening programs,diagnostic infrastructure,training,andpublic awareness campaigns.

Responsibilitiesof County Governments

Clause5oftheBillmandatescountygovernmentsto-

• (a)implementnational standards and policiesrelating to autism;
• (b)formulate and monitor a county autism strategy aligned with the national strategy;

• (c)establish CountyDiagnosticCentersinall existingcountylevel 4and5hospitals forearlydetection andmanagementof autism;
• (d) establishcommunity-level caregiver supportgroups;
• (e)establish acountydatabaseofpersonswith autism andsharethisinformationwith the national government; and
• (f)putinplacemeasuresfor accessibilityofaffordablemedical servicesforpersons with autism within countyhospitals.

Countygovernments arerequired to setaside specific allocations from countyhealth budgets to support autism prevention andmanagement activities.

EstablishmentofAutismUnits

Clause6oftheBillmandatesboth theCabinetSecretaryandeachcountyexecutive committeememberto-

• (a)establish anautism unit within theministryofhealth or therelevantcounty department dealingwithpublichealthmatters;and
• (b)ensure diagnosticcenters are staffedwith trainedprofessionalsand appropriate diagnostic tools.

Autismunitsshallberesponsiblefor-

• (a) collecting andcollating data on autism prevalence at national and countylevels;
• (b) establishing and updating national and county databases;
• (c)coordinating all autism programs including training and public awareness campaigns;and
• (d)performingotherduties asdirectedbytheCabinetSecretaryor countyexecutive committeemember.

County autismunits arerequired toperiodicallysharedatawiththeNational Government for updatingthenational database.

Education andpublicsensitization

TheBill requirestheNational Government andcountygovernments,incollaborationwith stakeholders,to-

• (a)promotepublicawareness about the causes,meansofprevention,treatment and managementofautism through comprehensivenationwidecampaigns;
• (b)conduct education and information campaignsin schools,institutionsoflearning and communities throughoutKenya;

• (c)provide training,sensitization and awareness programs on autism to medical practitioners,communityandsocialworkers,educators,and otherstakeholders;
• (d) ensure theinvolvement andparticipationofindividuals andgroups affected by autismin education andinformationprograms;and
• (e)ensure thatinformationprovided coverssupport,attitudestowards affectedpersons, and psychological supportforcaregivers.

TeacherTrainingandSyllabus

Clause8oftheBillmandatestheKenyaInstituteof CurriculumDevelopmentto-

• (a)ensure that autism awareness isintegrated inbothpre-service and in-service teacher training;and
• (b)developa trainingcurriculum tobeintegratedintosyllabuseson themanagement of autism to ensure care of personswith autism is taught at all levelsofeducation.

ComplementaritywithExistingDisabilityLegislation

TheBill provides that in addition toitsspecific provisions,personswith autism shall enjoy all the rights,protection and privilegesprovided for under the Persons Living with DisabilityAct,2025,andotherrelevantlaws

Regulations

TheBillempowers the CabinetSecretary,in consultationwith the Council of Governors, tomakeregulationsfor thebetter carryingoutof theprovisions of theAct.

4.CONSEQUENCESOFTHEBILL

TheBill,once enacted,will establish a comprehensivelegal andinstitutional framework for themanagementof autisminKenya.Itwill ensure earlydetection and diagnosisof autism throughtheestablishmentofdiagnosticcentersatnationalandcountylevels.The Billwillfacilitateaccess toaffordableandqualitydiagnosticandmanagementservicesfor personswith autism,while ensuring adequate trainingfor medical practitioners,teachers, andcaregivers.

TheBillwill promotepublicawarenessandreducestigma associatedwithautism,fostering amoreinclusivesociety.Itwill establishrobustdatacollectionsystems toinformpolicy development andplanning.TheBillwill also ensure dedicated budgetary allocationsfor autismprogramsatbothnational andcountylevels,guaranteeingsustainablesupportfor personswithautism andtheircaregivers.

ByaligningKenyawithinternationalbestpracticesand theWHO'sglobalautism resolution,theBill will position the country as aleaderinautismmanagement in theregion whilefulfillingconstitutionalobligationsunderArticle43(1)(a)regarding theright to health.

5.WAYFORWARD

Whatnext?

TheBillwasRead aFirstTimeintheSenate on26thNovember,2025.Pursuant tostanding order145oftheSenateStandingOrders,theSenateStandingCommitteeonHealthshall facilitatepublicparticipationandshall takeintoaccount theviewsandrecommendations ofthepublicwhenthecommitteesubmitsitreporttotheSenate.

Whatisexpectedofmembers of thepublic

Members of thepublic are expected to present their views to the Senate Standing CommitteeonHealthforconsideration.

Note:

1. ThisDigest reflectstheBill as passed bytheNational Assembly and docsnot cover any subscquent amendments totheBillmadethereafter. 2. TheDigest doesnothave anyofficial legal status.

Annex4:

Ndvertisement as published in thg Media Nojustice Petitionerssaidvictims'cases were mysteriously dropped orsettled without their involvement

Report exposesUKsoldiers shocking conduct in Kenya

Inquiryrevealeddis turbingaccounts of rape,sexualassault andviolentbehaviour

BYSAMWELOWINO

parliamentary inquiryhas des trainingin Kenya. manrightsviolations and gations of sexual abuse,huuncovered shocking alleicalbehaviourbyBritishsol-

sritishArmy Training Unitin enyanlawbypersonnel from Kenya(Batuk).

stances of misconduct,environmental negligence and disregard The report details multiple in-

lations Committee inresponse to Kenyans,particularly commufence,ntelligenceandForeignRe ed-by theNational Assembly's Depetitionsandcomplaintsfrom The investigation was conduct- nities in Laikipiaand Samburu counties near training grounds.

Commission responded witha TheUnitedKingdon (UK) High statementexpressingregret that firmingitsreadinesstoinvestigate allegations underitsjurisdiction. itssubmissionwasnotincorporatedintothereport'sconclusionsaf-

The inquiryrevealeddisturbing accountsofrape,sexuaiassault andviolentbehaviourbysoldiers, as well as maiming and deaths due to negligent handling of mili. taryexplosives.

gate those under ourjurisdiction come to lightin the Committees report,westandreadytoinvesti "Where new allegations have readsthe statement fully once evidence is provided,

its defencerelationship withKenvelopmenttocounter sharedsecuya,which delivers a broad pro ing,education and capability de ritythreatstogether. gramme of cooperationin trainIt added:The UK highly values

REPUBLICOFKENYA

THIRTEENTHPARLIAMENTIFOURTHSESSION

THE SENATE

INVITATIONFORSUBMISSIONOFMEMORANDA THEAUTISMMANAGEMENTBILL,2025[SENATEBILLSN0.190F2025]

TheAutismManagementBill,2025[SenateBillsNo.19of2025]wasreadaFirstTimein theSenateonWednesday,26November,2025andcommitted totheStandingCommitteeon Healthforconsideration.

The Committee is requlred,under standing order145[5]of the Senate Standing Orders,to facilitatepublicparticipationontheBilland totakeinto accounttheviewsandrecommendations of thepublicwhen theCommitteemakesitsreport to theSenate.

The Bill seeks toprovide for an integratedand coordinated approach to the management of autism inKenya.TheBill furtherseeks toestablishacomprehensivelegalframeworkfor early screening.diagnosis,managementandsupportofpersonswithautism,whilepromotingpublic awarenessandallocation of adequateresources towards autism programmes.

Inaccordance with theprovisionsofArticlel18[1](b]oftheConstitution andstandingorder 145[5]oftheSenateStandingOrders,theStandingCommitteeonHealthnowinvitesinterested membersof the publicto submitanyrepresentations that they may have on theBillby wayof writtenmemoranda.

Thememoranda maybesubmitted totheClerkof the Senate,P.0.Box41842-00100,Nairobi hand-delivered to the Office of the Clerkof the Senate,Main Parliament Buildings,Nairobi or emalled to:clerk.sengte@parliameat.gc.ke and copied to:healthcommitice.senate@ legokg,tobereceivedonorbeforeMonday22December,2025at5.00p.m.

TheBillandadigest that summarizesthecontentsandcontextoftheBill maybeaccessedonthe Parliamentwebsite at;http://www.parlioment.go.ke/the-senate/lhouse-business/bills.

J.M.NYEGENYE,CBS, CLERKOF THESENATE.

According to the.committee,after encountering anotherunexBatuk submitted unsigned docu-ploded ordinance. ments through theMinistry of Di asporaAffairs on October22.

In onecase,Robertwara Seri an employee at the Ole-Naishu Rangesrertdtavedif terunknovingly carryinghome an unexploded ordnance from a Batuk range.A child,Lisoka Lesasuyanlostotharmsandany

the Committee'srepor we standreadyto Where newallegations havecometolightin investigatethoseunder ourjurisdiction UKHighCommission

"witmessesdescribedfrequent altercations involving Batuk soldiersinbarssocial venues and tovmi centres often involvingintoxication,disorderlyconductand in somecasesviolent or sexually readsthereport. mitted thatsome soldiers were implicated in sexual assaults and physicalconfrontations occurring aggressive behaviour.It was subinentertainmentestablishments,"

The report also details publicindecencybysoldiersinciudingex posing themselves.

cidentsofsexualmisconductwith Witnessesreportedmultipleinmany victims'cases mysteriously droppedorsettled without their involverment.

It adds:"Many submissions re-

mutipleincidents ofrapeand sex soldiersmanyinvolvingyoungo cal women,reads thereport. ualassault perpetrated byBatuk "Communitywitnessesreported vealed thatBatukhason diverse court orders on compensation its activities." arisingfrom accidents and environmental degradationlinked to occasionsfailedtocomplywith Kenya Defence Forces Act toinmended that theMinistry of De. fence,inconsultationwiththeAt clude a visiting forces code ofcontomey-General,should armendthe The committee has recomduct,zero-tolerance provisionsfor gender-basedviolence,environmental obligations,and civilian oversight mechanisms.

BritishArny soldiers during traininginLolldaiga,Laikipia County onNovember14,2022.FILEINATION

andleftovermilitarywaste. stock deathsdue to toxicfumes

negotiate with the UK government on mechanisms to hold Batuksoldiers accountablefor They also want the ministry to

toryissues,miscarriages,and live-child supportobligations. Residents alsoreportedrespira-

committeefoundno evidenceof Despite these allegations,the in Kenya for serious crimes comBatuk membersbeingprosecuted itary,creating what witnesses descnbedas aculture ofimpunity" fenders areoftenrepatriated orinmitted onKenyan soil.Allegedof ternally discipined by theUKmil

TENDERNOTICE

KCAUniversityKCAUsPrierivatveritwihpueinuraaMa]tngelairobiCD.andWet Campusslvtntvbidmllndidttll tenders,

| NO | TENDERDESCRIPTION | CLOSING/OPENING DATEANDTIME | |------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------| | | KCAU/NCB/004/2025: ProposedRenevation Works toTuition Complex,atKCA University MainCampus Ruarako,Nalrobi County(Phase) | 16December.2025 11.00AM | | | Proposed Rencvtion Worcs to Tuition ComplexatKCA University Main Campus KCAU/NCB/005/2025: Ruaraka,Nalrobi County(PhaseIn | 16Decmber,2025 11.00AM | | | KCAU/E01/006/2025: ExpressionofInterestforProvlsion ofConsultancyServicesfortheDevelopmentof aMaster Plan for LR.No.Kajiado Kaputei Nort1762 and LR.No.33887 Kanyakwur, Kisumu County forKCA University | 16December.2025 11.00AM |

Tenderdocumentsdetailingtherequirementsftheabovetendersmaybeobtained fromtheKCAUnversitywebsitehttp:// www.kcau.ac.ke/tenders

HOWTOAPPLY

anagemntOfficeManCampusuaraka.Ensurethatthtendrumbesareclearlymarkedandaddressedt

The Vice Chancellor&CEO KCA University, P.OBox56808-00200, Nairobi,Kenya.

Forinquls,plescontactusat:0710888022/0734888022/0208070408oremailusatsuppiychan@keau.ac.ke

The tenders will be opened immediately thereafter in theprosence of the those who have submittedbids or their representatives attheKCAUniversityLibrary Boardroomat1.0Oam.localTima.

falselnformatnwilleadtoautmaticdisqualficaton. KCAUnlvertyreservesthrighttoaccptrejctanybidinwholrinpartatitsdiscreton.Anycanvasingorgivng

NATIONALENVIRONMENTMANAGEMENTAUTHORITY

PopoRdfMbodPx67839-0200Nib,K. Te072425339a.075G1304.Eminnamag.ke.Webitwww.e.1

DEVELOPMENTONPLOTRNORAIROSW/BLOC38/42ALONGPRDFWANGARIMAATHAIRDADENAIRDTCOUNTY ENMRONMENTALIMPACTASSESSMENTSTUDYREPORTFORTHEPROPOSENRESDENTTAEAPARTMENTS

PursunttSecnS9hEenMnanCnActC7.thationlEntnty()

ThprnFgwdnt3 nm bickcmingl0crmnu6Nnbdronitnd1Nwbemut]3hprgay Nalrobi/Block 3a/2alongFraf ngarstd,ariCounty

Thu followigare the anticipaledmgects nd poposedmitigatinmeasures:

| egotivolmgaets | Mitigation Measures | |-------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Noise and vibrations generation | plylorLicnsmNEMAwebymaximumpeissiblenievesretobeexcoedod Prscibeaprprlaenisereuctianmeaugrestrictedworkinghousndtnporthour noise buffenng installportablbrsthldcpssorandatherltllnayequmentwhecesy Uequietequpment[.euipmentdesined withnisocontrolelerntsuchamuirs] andlocatestatinarynoisesourcessfarfomxlstingsensitvereceptarsaspossible: Limitruckandathermaiquipmenttmimizldingtmandswitchidlengnehnaver Ensureuseofwellsericed yehiclsandequment. | | Air gollutlen[dust and exhaust umisslons) | Prididnddt Provide2.4-mete-hiphhoardingalongsitboundary passdte. Coveatklnanntlsmtqlltruckinntt the scaffolding: twofeetof irecboard: Waterallctive constructinareswhennecessary Downwashof truckstyrespriortodeparturefromsit Vehicleidingtime shallbemininied | | w—tegeneration | Usefdrnastngtlhwiltacebdng amtuntofconstructionwastngeneratedvertima: Previdefacilitiesforproperhandingandstragefconstructionmetcrlalstoreduce theamountf wastecaused bydamagacrexposuretotheelments Useofbullingmatrilsthathaveminimalpackagingtoavold thgeneratonfecessne packagng Useof constructiomaterialscortainangrecycled content when posibleandInaccodancewith acceptedstandardsand waste: Adequtecollctonand storag ofwasteansiteandsfetransprtatlnticenseddposaltend | | tandsafetyrisks/hazards | Enhanceuntbyuringuarspstedarond thprjetsandthstrategilacmentf secunity ghtsaround thesite. Aresterofllconsructionworkersshallekept Unattendedpublccessto thcnstructinsiteshalbestrieteandolyngent/extpont hall Aprprtthadsfeyeehllemed be used Ensuresafetyoducation/trainingoftheconstructionwarkers Wamingsandsigsshouldheplacedinapproprateplaces inclodingvisltors AproriataPernalProtectiveEqulpent shalibwnatatimesbyall within thcnstruction sie | | Incroased waterdomand | Instalproperfiemanagementeuigmentandemergencyresponsesystems/strategies. Promotaawarenesson waterconservetion Installwatermeterswheraapplcable Deteminethementhlywatarconsumptionanditscost Isanilalwn Identifyactivitiesandareasthatcause highconsumgtion Rlalyintainmngfitrendpipinginrdetavidloses taps,lwushtets.ec] Replacedelective sealsandrepairdamape to walurppes | | Incrrased energy demand | dentiyandseareas/nuipmen/sstemhainmiimunenergcnsumptin Usealternativeeneryegsolarpowerfarwatorheating Installenengyeficientightingincomnareassuchasstaieasesanddrivewy | | T:atflc andobsbuetlonaloag accessroad | EnsurellonstructlonhicestandfrmthcstructinitusthedegnatedEntry/Exittthe odiacentroads ltransprtatlanfconstructlorawmatrsandexcavatedmateralsretobeconductedttrff project site Othermitgatnerereoidwithnheet Covrknglndadhllstsinddst peakhours only Sensitizetrckdrerstoavoid unnocssaryroadobstution mayinterferewithsmoothmetoring |

Afullreport f th propsed projectavallablefonspctonduringworinghoursat

StateDpartnfEirnntandCltChang NHIFBulding12thFlar L.Principal Secretary Ministryof Emvironmant ClimateChangaand Foresty RagatiRosdUpperH Bax30126-00100, OBL

NAIROBICOUNTY.

2.DirectorGenoral National Emironmentand ManagmntAuthrty(NEMA] PopoRoadlfMomasaod P.0.Box67839-00200,NAIROBI,

unty Dirctoraf Environment,

Acopy af the EIAreprtcan bedowmloaded atyww.nem.o.ke

tMtfi// NEMAInvitesmembersftheublictosubmitralrwittncommentswthinthirty[30]dayfomtdateofpulicatlonithisoticethe

DIRECTOR GENERAL

This advertisementissponsaredbythe proponent

Buying or selling a car?

Advertise inThe Standard and get real value!

I&MBuilding.Banda Street,Ground floor

classifiedads@standardmedia.co.ke

0719012555

@AdsCentre

REPUBLICOFKENYA

THIRTEENTHPARLIAMENTIFOURTHSESSIOM

THE SENATE

INVITATIONFORSUBMISSIONOEMEMORANDA THEAUTISMMANAGEMENTBILL2025[SENATEBILLSNO.190F2025]

The AutismManagement Bill,2025[Senate BillsNo.19of2025]was read aFirst Timein theSenateonWednesday.26November,2025andcommittedto theStandingCommittee on Health for consideration.

The Committee is required,under standing order 145[5]of the Senate Standing Orders,to fecilitatepublicparticipaticnontheBill andtotakeinto accounttheviews andrecommendations of thepublicwhen theCommitteemakesitsreportto theSenate.

autism inKenya.The Bill further seeksto establishacomprehensive legalframework forearly The Billseeks to provideforan integrated andcoordinated approach to themanagementof screeningdiagnosismanagementandsuportfersonswithautismwhilepromotingpublc awareness and allocationof adequateresourcestowards autism programmes.

In accordance with theprovisionsof ArticleI18(1](b]of theConstitutionandstandingorder 145(5]of theSenateStandingOrders,theStandingCommitteeonHealthnowinvitesinterested membersof thepublictosubmitanyrepresentations thattheymayhaveontheBillbywayof writtenmemcranda.

Thememorandamaybe submitted to theClerkof theSenate,P.0.Box41842-00100,Nairobi, hand-delivered to the Officeof the Clerk of the Senate,Main Parliament Buildings,Nairobi or emailed to:clerk.senate@parliamert.go.ke and copied to;healthcommittee.senate@ parliament.go.ke,tobereceived onarbeforeMonday,22December,2025at5.00p.m

TheBillanda digest thatsummarizesthecontents andcontextoftheBillmaybe accessed onthe Parliamentwebsite at;http://wwrw.parliament.go.ka/the-senate/house-business/bills.

J.M.NYEGENYE,CBS, CLERKOF THE SENATE.

THESIGALAGALANATIONAL POLYTECHNIC

Skillstotransformlivelihoods

GTHGRADUATIONCEREMONY

SigalagalaNationalPolytechnicispleased toinformallgraduands,studentsstaffparentsandthe general public that the5graduation ceremony willbe held onFriday,5 December,2025.The venue is the graduationsquare,startingat8:0OamattheMainCampus.

Graduationfee

• ABSAbank kakamega branchA/CNo:0098043551

Allgraduands willberequired topayanon-refundablegraduationfeeofksh.3000[three thousand only) paymentmade through:

• 2Equitybankkakamega branchA/CNo:0500277394606

Deadline forpaymentis28November,2025

anyothermodeofpaymentsuchasdirectcashtostaffmoneytransfertopersonalphonenumbers/accounts payment and thegraduands shall bearfull responsibility.

Graduationgown

GraduationgownshallbecollectedfromtherespectivedepartmentfficesfromTuesdaytWednesday, 3December,2025andreturned byTuesday,9December,2025.Apenaltyofksh500[fivehundred)per day will be chargedforlatereturns.

Graduation Book

Graduationbookwillbe issuedonrehearsalday which willbeonThursday,4December,2025.

Rehearsals

Rehearsalswillbeheld onThursday,4December2025at2:00p.m.attheTSNPgraduation square[main campus].This is mandatory forall graduands

Photos and Videosof theGraduation.

All personsattendingthegraduationceremonywillbedeemedtohaveconsented tohavetheirphotas/videos captured during theceremony.These imagesmaybe usedincollege documents andvarious publicity platforms.

Enguiries

Formoreinformation on the graduation,trainingprogrammes,intakesandapplication procedure,please visit the college website at wrrw.sigalagalapolyac.e.email registrar@sigalagalapcly.ac.ke call us an. 0725663322or0793600519

Chief Principal

The Sigalagala National Polytechnic

Annex5:

Matrix on Stakeholder Submissions

18.Albert Wanjeri-Rights-Based Advocate

17.Constanza Wairimu Muriuki-Parent/Caretaker of childwith autism

16.ChristopherMutunga and Anyes Nyaga-Parents of child with autism Neurodivergence - Convenor:IvyKihara (Human Rights Lawyer)

15.Hannah Rise Autistic -CommunityBased Organization (Violet Kangogo,Treasurer)

• 14.Coalition of Parents, Caregivers,Professionals,Disability Rights Advocates and Persons with Lived Experience on

Kimani, Moses Ngware.

12.Dr.AnnKioi-HealthcareProfessional,Author andMother of two autisticchildren

• 13.APHRC(African Population and Health Research Center)Dr.FridahKiambati,Dr.Silas Onyango,DrSymonKariuki,Alvin

11.AlfredGicheruMazerah-ConcernedKenyan withlived experienceof neurodevelopmental disability

10.Fed Oinga Oyagi-

Adultwithautism

6 MelbaKatindiAdvocate of the High Court of Kenya,ManagingPartner Katindi &CompanyAdvocates Secretary

8

.L

6

S

KimberlyWanjiruNjau-Parent of childwith autism

CalvinceOmondi-Special EducationTeacher andPractitioner

Daveson Ndirangu- Occupational Therapist,AVI Disability and Rehab

Neurodivergents Society of Kenya (NSK) and Andy Speaks 4 Special NeedsPersons Africa

MichaelAmaraCounty Occupational Therapist,Kisumu County,Kenya Ocupational TherapyAssociation(KOTA)National Commission onRevenueAllocation

2i Council ofCountyGovernors BeatriceNamunyak John-Masters Student (CUEA) Health Economics &Policy,Caregiver andAutismAdvocatec

Stakeholders:

(SENATEBILLSNO.19OF2025)

THEAUTISMMANAGEMENTBILL,2025

MATRIX

THESENATE

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

Occupational Therapists,KUTTRH

20.PaulineWamukowa-Director,Mali Therapy Center forKidswithAutism 21.Dr.Sarah Cherere Obara-Clinical Nutritionist andResearcher

2.MargieNKoech-Occupational Therapist 2

3

4.SanaipeiNtimamaCo-FounderKalel ABAProgram,USIU-Africa,Mother of 8-year-old withASD

4

5.Furaha CentreMeru/FurahaSczescieInternationalOccupationalTherapists and Caregivers,CompiledbyJadlyneMakena

5

26.BettyJeanNyambura-DirectorSt AlbansAutism Centre

29.InclusivePathways Hub (IPH)Jennifer Ondiek,Lead Consultant

31.Margaret Thongori

32.OliverNgeta

33.Milton Onyiro-Parent,Mombasa

35.Kenya Occupational TherapistsAssociation (KOTA)

37.NoahAmolo-Father of an1l-year-old autistic son

| RESOLUTION | Agree | |--------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | Autism prevalence ison the rise,yet severely limited in many counties.For instance,MachakosLevel5Hospital has onlyonespeech therapist.Research consistently shows that interventions are most effective during thefirstfiveyears oflife | | PROPOSAL | prioritize staffed centers and targets,to ensure childrencan access earlyinterventions during thecriticalwindowofthefirstfive adequately andtherapy should TheBill accessible, diagnostic is highest | | STAKEHOLDER CLAUSE | Beatrice Namunyak Master's (CUEA) HealthEconomics& Caregiver Autism Advocate Student Policy, John and Clause1 |

| Clause2 | CLAUSE Therapist, Occupational Daveson Ndirangu - | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Practitioner Teacher Special Calvince Omondi Education and | STAKEHOLDER AVI | | purelymedical condition neurodevelopmental rather than recognition covering use accommodations"; support" definition conditions); autistic people have mental health occurring needs;explicit inclusion of spectrumwith include:recognition of autism as a broadenthedefinitionofautismto Expand section2of thebill to sensoryneeds evolve. rapid adaptation age-inclusive lifespan conditions and of varying autism needs (70% language support as and of CO- | with specific tactile densitiesfor Precision customizationof toys personalized Integrate PROPOSAL 3D sensory printing tools: for | | help in focusing the services better. special servicesanditsinclusionwould complicating varied. Co-morbidity is known to be butratherabandandtheirneedsare scope of autism. strengthen frameworks forASD,it is important to which legislative provisions in UK and US spectrum disorder (ASD)" autism, The bill providesminimal definition of have referencing deeply the This comprehensive the interventions wouldhelp definitionand only Looking at "autism legal for in | size-fits-all' therapeutic toys often fail. Autism isa diverse spectrum and‘one- REASONS | | Agree | Agree RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION Agree | Agree | Agree | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | This definition is insufficient in the SL mislabelled A comprehensive definition is essential to and autism superstition. legal where misunderstood, thecorrect conceptual foundation context, or establishing REASONS frequently parenting Kenyan | The current definition defines Autism strictly as ASD,ignoring comorbidities orthePWD Act Excludes recognition ofneurodiversity andlived disability. UNCRPD of learning withthe definition experience | therapists are integral multidisciplinary spectrum autism Occupational interventions component disorder | | Expand Clause 2 to define autism neurodevelopmental condition,nota diseaseormental support early reasonable Individualised (IEPs), learning support or shadow teachers,and with withvarying needs across the lifespan; for appropriate safeguards. includedefinitions Education Plans accommodation, PROPOSAL intervention, B spectrum behaviour as | cover disability spectrum comorbid conditions.Include a rights-based UNCRPD for: reasonable independent support, caregiver,multidisciplinary team, Adddefinitions 01 habilitation&rehabilitation aligned to definition neurodevelopmental autism common education accommodation, the Broaden including definition Article1. supports, within living, | “occupational having successfully undergone a prescribed course of trainingin a definition: ppv | | KimberlyWanjiru Njau-Parent of child STAKEHOLDER withautism | Kenya Andy Special Persons Neurodivergents of and Society (NSK) Speaks Needs Africa | County Occupational Kisumu Amara Michael Therapist, | | CLAUSE | | |

| | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Advocates Katindi& Managing Court Advocate of the High Melba of Katindi Company Partner Kenya, | Advocates Katindi & Company Managing Court Advocate of the High Melba of Katindi Partner Kenya, | National Secretary County, STAKEHOLDER KOTA | | social, persons person with autism,and includes development, the ongoing, legal guardian,family member,or daily educational, providing substantial orinclusionofa care, orpractical supportfor emotional wellbeing, | framework. person-centred addressed within a rights-based, which shall abilities and support needs, across cognition, processing, social characterised by differences in neurodevelopmental rights-based definition of autism: Provide a clear,inclusive,and this Act; (CAP 253H). communication, a broad means be recognised behaviour, spectrum a condition sensory lifelong and and and of and | institution andisregistered under certificate traininginstitution,is a holderofa PROPOSAL issued by that | | support of caregivers in autism management and To formally recognize the essential role | medicalized framing mustprovideclear definitions to avoid rights-based a medicalwithnorecognitionofautism as The currentdefinitionofautismispurely neurodevelopmental perspective. The section variation or | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | Agree | |-------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------| | REASONS | comprehensive that supports all autistic learners B ensure | TheBill doesnotexplicitlyrecognise who were not diagnosed in childhood, masked symptoms due to social,cultural,or only adultsfrom diagnostic services, support data collection,and policy are or JO misdiagnosed factors, programs, economic planning. were | classification diagnostic recognised | | support, whether on a permanent or temporarybasis. PROPOSAL | Define“Inclusive Education”as: an education system,philosophy, and learners, with autism, of accommodation, individualized support, accessible and teaching within mainstream educational settings. provision environments, participation, for learners the methodologies, achievement appropriate including reasonable through learning access, | includes children,adolescents, and adults, whether diagnosedin childhood "Persons with autism” or adulthood. | under Insertanewdefinition Clause2: | | STAKEHOLDER | Advocate of the High Kenya, Partner Katindi&Company Katindi of Managing Advocates Melba Court | Fed Oinga Oyagi Adultwithautism | Gicheru Mazerah Alfred | | CLAUSE | | | |

| Clause3 | | CLAUSE | |----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | (NSK) Society Neurodivergents and ofKenya Andy | disability neurodevelopmental experience with Concerned Mazerah Alfred Kenyan Gicheru lived of | disability neurodevelopmental experience with Concerned Kenyan STAKEHOLDER lived of | | language entirely. Remove“prevention of autism” | effective participation in society. accessibility, equality discrimination, principlesof Disabilities, Rights United Nations Convention on the and Kenya’s obligations under the with the Constitution applied in a manner consistent "This Act shall be interpreted and read: immediately after Clause 1to Proposes insertion ofanewclause successor." classified under ICD-1l or its of of and including Persons dignity, opportunity full autonomy ofKenya and non- the with | dyscalculia), disorders (including dyslexia and (ADHD), Deficit/Hyperactivity conditions" PROPOSAL specific include developmental Attention- learning Disorder | | medical entirely on screening, diagnosis,and Currentprovisionsarefocusedalmost management. Include | control. respects rights,not charity or medical legislation and ensure implementation are standard in modern disability CRPD-compliant interpretation clauses | amendmentsasscienceevolves. systems and avoidsrepeatedlegislative REASONS | | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | |----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | and education, protection, employment,communityinclusion,and inaccurate Ignores social scientifically independent living. discriminatory. rehabilitation, REASONS 1S | Thesectionisbroadbutdoesnot diagnosis. Autism management does not structured early care, when of follow, continuity improvedoutcomes. that Without years | isnot prevention of autism,but prevention of exclusion,neglect,and rightsviolations. inclusive education,transition support,and adult thatthepurpose include servicesascoreobjectives explicitly Toclarify Should | | cover: inclusive education,habitation& services, support, anti- protections, inclusive employment pathways, and to accessibility support, Expand objectives community-based accommodations PROPOSAL rehabilitation discrimination caregiver public | Expand Section 3 to expressly long-term, multidisciplinary intervention and core support objectivesoftheAct. caregiver include | Reframe objects to adopt a rights- neurodiversity-affirming promote the dignity,autonomy, accessto coordinated screening,diagnosti, with autism;ensure approach: based, | | Special Persons STAKEHOLDER Speaks4 Needs Africa | Author andMotheroftwo Kioi autistic children Professional, Dr.Ann Healthcare | Advocate of the High Kenya, Partner Katindi&Company Katindi of Managing Advocates Melba Court | | CLAUSE | | |

| | | CLAUSE | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | disability neurodevelopmental experience with Concermed Mazerah Alfred Kenyan Gicheru lived of | Adultwithautism Fed Oinga Oyagi | STAKEHOLDER | | and Tourette syndrome. coordination disorder(dyspraxia), dyscalculia), disorders (including dyslexia and (ADHD), Deficit/Hyperactivity including neurodevelopmental addressing provide a policy words: after “persons with autism”the Amend Clause 3(a) by inserting specific developmental pathwayfor Attention- conditions, learning Disorder related | support of persons with autism." diagnosis, early integrated approach towards the Amend Clause lifelong inclusion" community ...provide and management a participation, late framework 3(a)toread: screening, and for and | exclusion and rights violations; support therapeutic, PROPOSAL services; educational, prevent and | | across the lifespan. making,and access toinclusive services persons with disabilities in decision- accommodation, ensure non-discrimination, Party to the CRPD,has an obligation to within law or policy.Kenya,as a State lackrecognition andstructuredsupport comparable challenges but currently neurodevelopmental framework.ManyKenyanswithother neurodevelopmental situated thatautismpolicyismosteffectivewhen Internationalexperiencedemonstrates within participation conditions and rights-based reasonable broader face | clinically valid and beneficial. diagnosis at any stage of life remains neurodevelopmental against adults. without repeatedemphasison earlydetection Whileearly screening is Autism condition, provisions for essential, and | REASONS | | Reject | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | Agree | |--------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | mostoftheir timeeither athomeorin school,therefore a need tobuild capacity study shows fortrained teachers and empowered parents APHRC andaneed Evidence from gaps skills | role in autism management and should be included in training provisions | The section doesnotrequire thenational governmenttodefineminimum service care across the ofnational standards,services remain fragmented, uo geographyorincome.Familiesareleft to‘figure things out’on their own,often atgreatemotional andfinancialcost dependent Inthe absence autism and for inconsistent, standards country. | | PROPOSAL | Revise the objective toinclude continuous tomedical practitioners and caregivers addition undergo 01 111 training groups | training for medical Occupational in caregivers "provide relation to autism" and to: practitioners, continuous Therapists Amend | Section4tomandatetheCabinet Secretaryresponsible for health to develop andgazette aMinimum Package and multidisciplinary services;caregiver training and psychosocial support; education support linkages screening Service intervention including: diagnosis; Autism | | STAKEHOLDER | (African and Research Center)-Dr.Fridah Kiambati,Dr.Silas Onyango,Dr. Symon Alvin Moses Population APHRC Kariuki, Kimani, Ngware Health | MichaelAmara- County Occupational Kisumu KOTA National Secretary Therapist, County, | Kioi- Author andMotheroftwo autistic children Professional, Dr.Ann Healthcare | | CLAUSE | Clause 3(d) | | Clause4 |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Kangogo,Treasurer) Organization(Violet HannahRiseAutistic Community-based | Rights Lawyer) Kihara Convenor: Neurodivergence Experience Persons with Advocates Disability Professionals, Caregivers, Coalition ofParents, (Human Lived Rights Ivy and on | Rights Lawyer) Kihara Convenor: Neurodivergence Experience Persons with Lived Advocates Disability Professionals, Caregivers, Coalition of Parents, (Human Rights Ivy and on | STAKEHOLDER | | hospitals) occupational therapies inreferral therapies appropriate medical services and Ensure access toaffordable and (e.g speech and | resourcerealities cultural, whoare international population professionals with experience in Autism Theformulation of theNational grounded in Kenya's institutional, best health practice, and but and | experience professionals disability rights advocates,and educators,parents,self-advocates, occupational behavioural experts,speech and pediatricians, comprising explicitly provided forin the Bill, representative national team be multidisciplinary, with developmental neurologists, therapists, lived | PROPOSAL | | spectrum activities tohelp children on the autism impactful therapies that uses day to day with Speech therapy language and addresses challenges communication. | models from high-income settings equity,rather than uncritical adoption of to ensure accessibility,affordability,and "Best practice"beclearlycontextualised Agree | institutionaldesignwhileformulating To ensure inclusivity in governance and | REASONS | | Agree | | | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION Agree | Agree | Agree | Agree | Agree | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | This shall provide skills and knowledge necessary for humanized care,holistic support and effective communication REASONS | Every childwith autism is unique with and individualized educationplanensuresthateducational istailoredtomeetthe challenges specific need of each student. their own strength, An styles. programming learning | Inclusive education plays a vital rolein the development and growth of autistic where studentswith autism can learn children. schools | can mental intervention improve parents' behavioral/emotionalproblems focused significantly Parents | Caregivers of autistic people often for behaviorslinkedtoautismbuttheseare bythosewho explanations excuses misunderstandautism genuine dismissed as provide | | autism training formedical practitioners to improve their understanding of and persons, mandatory needs and challenges children PROPOSAL Initiatea autistic | Ensure childrenwith autism have pathway their (individualized 01 access to stage-based tailored individual need educational plan) curriculum | autism normal school,in every ward and equip the units with therapy rooms and resource centers,managed by affordable qualified staff. Establish | Provide psycho-social support to familiesofchildren andpersons with autism | autism with persons Judicial system Ensure | | HannahRiseAutistic Community-based Organization (Violet Kangogo, Treasurer) STAKEHOLDER | HannahRiseAutistic Community-based Organization (Violet Kangogo, Treasurer) | HannahRiseAutistic Community-based Organization (Violet Kangogo, Treasurer) | HannahRiseAutistic Community-based Organization (Violet Kangogo, Treasurer) | HannahRiseAutistic Community-based Organization (Violet Kangogo,Treasurer) | | CLAUSE | | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Advocates Katindi& Managing Court Advocate of the High Melba of Katindi Company Partner Kenya, | Organization(Violet -Community-based Hannah RiseAutistic | Kangogo, Treasurer) Organization (Violet -Community-based Hannah RiseAutistic Kangogo,Treasurer) Organization (Violet | STAKEHOLDER | | reporting to Parliament. fenced funding subject to annual Secretary to publish a1 support). (screening, autism Mandatedevelopmentofnational enactment. Require the therapy, service Allocate National Cabinet education standards ring- | shared andprotected autism ofchildrenand Enactapolicytoprotecthowdata spectrum personswith disorder is | disorder and personswith autism spectrum support to thefamiliesof children Provide challenges that comewith autism caregivers tocushion the extra financial unique needs | PROPOSAL | | alone burden of navigating complex systems delays.This leaves caregivers to bear the there is a risk of fragmented services, Without enforceable national standards, | protection act. strengthen the protection under the data organizations.The policy should aim to objects spectrum disorders have been used as Children of and charityby parents with charitable autism | wellbeing. children and overwhelmed by the needsof cases, to caring for these children.In most Parents and caregivers devote their lives additional expenserequired tomeet their these tend parents to forget get their these too | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree a | Agree | Agree requires | |--------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | TheBillmandatestheestablishmentof diagnosticcentresbutdoesnotdefine minimum riskof counties of clinician training or standardisation. inconsistent diagnoses across B IO creates protocols This diagnostic standards. | International practice (CRPD,WHO) neurodevelopmental across populations. equity | monitoring,evaluation, and reporting to practice best of public funds. International | | PROPOSAL | Ensure that national diagnostic and diagnostic services for adults, late-diagnosed including individuals. | 4(1)(b)with: National Conditions autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity specific (including dyscalculia), coordination disorder (dyspraxia), and Tourette alignment with and Substitute Clause Strategy Neurodevelopmental addressing (ADHD), disorders complementary and in developmental Autism Strategy Disorder learning dyslexia syndrome, Gicheru | and Committee shall table an annual report before Parliament or the Secretary Executive Cabinet | | STAKEHOLDER | Fed Oinga Oyagi- Adultwith autism | Insert a new sub-clauseunder Clause 4 and Clause5: County Member "The Kenyan lived of neurodevelopmental Gicheru Kenyan lived of Concerned experience Concerned experience Mazerah disability Mazerah Alfred Alfred with with | neurodevelopmental disability | | CLAUSE | | | |

| 4(2) Clause | 4(1)) Clause | CLAUSE | |--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------| | childwithautism Parent/Caretaker Muriuki Constanza Wairimu | childwithautism Nyaga- Mutunga and Anyes Christopher Parents of | STAKEHOLDER | | placed. special Public maintenance of Autism units in allocation actively Ministry school. dailyliving help thelearnerswith activitiesof process.Deploy caretakers who occupational institutions tolift the burden of and caretakers in Public learning Deployoccupational therapists Schoolsand to ensure needs teachers are well ofEducationshouldbe for involved Cabinet (ADLs) therapy upgrading in Secretary while learning budget charges and at | education Proposed wording: ensures that and management". and management”with“detection Replace this Act." "prevention, and information treatment | expenditures, and outcomes under detailing PROPOSAL allocations, | | not ableto taketheirchildren toschool burdenedfinancially such that they are education.There are parents that are so early childhood,primary or secondary beexcludedfromfreeandcompulsory 20(6)Childrenwithdisabilitiesshall not Disabilities Act2025PartIII Section According tothe Persons with | whether thechildwill bebornwithASD which is not true since no one can predict disease thatcanbepreventedand treated The section assumes that autism isa | REASONS | | Agree | Reject | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | Agree | |--------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | for occupational therapists is essential for quality autism building managementservices Capacity | an importantaspectoftheachievementof developmentalmilestonesforchildren shows and (35.3%)are themost recommended but availability doesnot match demand.Parents cited high cost as access is provision study (38.7%) challenge limiting “not accessible and 30.8%“accessible but costly") APHRC therapy service speech therapy autism. occupational themain Therapy (33.3% with | autism of inter-ministerial Social Creates delivery. Focuses heavily on diagnostic centres support toMinistry assign (Education, siloed service comprehensive Labour). provisions management solely Lacks coordination Protection, fragmented, of ecosystems Current Health. instead | | PROPOSAL | In responsibilities of national "undertake various stakeholders including continuous training of medical practitioners, and Therapists for governmentinclude Occupational caregivers" capacity | Revise to include therapy services in addition tomedical services | Establish amulti-sectoral national mechanism ofHealth, Ministry ofEducation,Ministryf Labour&Employment,Ministry National with Autistic-led Caregiver associations,Kenya Occupational Persons Protection, Ministry coordinating for organizations, involving ofSocial Disabilities, Council | | STAKEHOLDER | County Occupational Kisumu KOTA Amara National Secretary Therapist, Michael County, | (African and Research Dr.Fridah Kiambati,Dr.Silas Onyango, Dr. Symon Alvin Moses Population APHRC Health Center) Kariuki, Kimani, Ngware | Andy Special Persons Neurodivergents and 4 Society (NSK) Speaks Needs Africa | | CLAUSE | Clause 4(d) | Clause 4(g) | Clauses |

| | Clause5 | | CLAUSE | |----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Convenor: Neurodivergence Experience Persons with Lived Advocates Disability Professionals, Caregivers, Coalition of Parents, Rights Ivy on and | autisticchildren andMotheroftwo Professional, Healthcare Dr.Ann Kioi Author | | STAKEHOLDER | | rural andlow-incomeinequities decentralisedservicestoaddress caregiver strategies, developing aligned county autism and responsibility Clause 5 should place significant support support community-level to on groups,and counties county in | through the county autism unit. intervention individualized assign each diagnosed child an through accreditedproviders and intervention services directlyor access county Expand governments toensure Section5torequire to plan, multidisciplinary coordinated care and | standards at countylevel. mandatory andre/habilitation. education, investments between diagnostics, Association Language of Kenya Occupational Therapist Council Therapists Association (KOTA), community (OTCK), inclusive-education (SLPA). Pathologists Speech& Introduce support, Balance | PROPOSAL | | mandated to meet these obligations Countiesmust be supported,notmerely | developmentovertime 'identifying children'to supporting their directionless.Countiesmustmovefrom pathwayleavesfamilies distressed and Diagnosis diagnosis intervention and follow-up. notclearlyobligated toensure post- Counties arerequired todiagnosebut are without an intervention | | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | Reject | Agree | |-----------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | Most families cannot access county- levelservicesduetolackoftrained adequate forces reliance on costlyprivate care or total gap This systemic facilities, personnel, exclusion. funding. | occurs health orientedtoward diagnosis public early childhood intervention. through implicitly assumes TheBill exclusively provisions | theaffordable s whether | Risperidone, as such medication, | | PROPOSAL | service counties. integrate County IntegratedDevelopmentPlans minimum 01 into for counties services requirements Introduce Require autism | offer autism diagnostic services for both children and adults,and for referral pathways adult assessments. establish | This clause should emphasize on and 01 parents/caregivers to support their hyperactivity triggering diets.The clause should not belimited togeneral medical address dietary supplements diet services but specifically friendly avoid and interventions. individuals affordable nutritional autism | Clause5(1)(f) shouldbefurther strengthened to ensureadequate | | (Human STAKEHOLDER RightsLawyer) Kihara | Advocate of the High Kenya, Partner Katindi & Company Katindi of Managing Advocates Melba Court | Fed Oinga Oyagi - Adultwithautism | Mutunga and Anyes childwith autism Christopher | Kioi Dr.Ann Healthcare | | CLAUSE | | | Clause 5(1)f) | |

| | Clause6 | 5(2) Clause | | CLAUSE | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Hannah Rise Autistic Community-based | Africa Needs Speaks (NSK) Society Neurodivergents 4 and of Persons Special Kenya Andy | childwith autism Nyaga -Parents of Mutunga and Anyes Christopher | autisticchildren andMotheroftwo Professional, Author | STAKEHOLDER | | learning curriculuminallearlychildhood Have stage-based centers tailored pathway to | services, and caregiver training. behavioural support,psychosocial occupational therapy,speech and units. Resource Centres,not medical Multidisciplinary Redesign Mandate Autism inclusion Support Units and of as | and public awareness campaigns. ofprofessionals and caregivers, diet related supplements, training infrastructure, supply of autism programs, including budget to support autism activities allocationfrom the countyhealth member shouldset aside specific The county executive committee early diagnostic screening | caring for autistic children. thefinancial burdenonfamilies forms of support to help alleviate persons. The bill should provide and support for expensive treatment medication for autistic | PROPOSAL | | learning styles.An their own strength, Every child with autism is unique with challenges and individualized | orcommunity-basedprogrammes reference torehabilitationframeworks psychologists, teams model.Nomentionofmultidisciplinary departments, Units are located only within health (OT, special educators). physiotherapists, No | in budget allocations support should be explicitlyrecognized Nutritional interventions and dietary | expenses health and well-being and other essential forced to choose between theirchild's such provisions,many families will be unaffordable formany families.Without areextremely Concerta, Epilim,Lamictal etc which expensive andoften | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | Agree | Agree | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | education plan ensures thateducational programming is tailored to meet the specific need of each student. REASONS | related neurodevelopmental conditions, consistentwithWHOrecommendations on integrated service delivery. | ways,caring for children with autism research for a child with autism is costly (21%), stressful (20%), emotionally challenging exhausting APHRC physically spectrum of needs. and (17%), (15%). | Article4(3): in decision-making ("nothing about us CRPD with without us"). Aligns | | children with autism spectrum (individualized educational plans). PROPOSAL disorder | 6(2)(c) to read: and neurodevelopmental programs in the area of operation, autism all Amend Clause "co-ordinating related | | 7(4)toread: meaningful involvement and participation of individuals and groups affected by other conditions, the in caregivers, neurodevelopmental and Clause the their Amend "ensure autism or | | Organization (Violet Kangogo,Treasurer) STAKEHOLDER | Gicheru Kenyan lived JO neurodevelopmental Mazerah Concerned experience disability. Alfred with | (African and Research Center)-Dr.Fridah Kiambati, Dr. Silas Onyango, Dr. Symon Alvin Moses APHRC Population Kariuki, Kimani, Ngware Health | Gicheru Kenyan lived of neurodevelopmental Mazerah Concerned experience disability Alfred with | | CLAUSE | | Clause 6(2) | Clause7 |

| | | 7(3) Clause CLAUSE | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | National Secretary County, Therapist, County Occupational Michael Amara KOTA Kisumu | Ngware Kimani, Kariuki, Onyango,Dr. Symon Kiambati,Dr. Silas Center)-Dr.Fridah Health Population APHRC Research (African Moses Alvin and | childwithautism Nyaga- Mutunga and Anyes Christopher STAKEHOLDER Parents of | | Medical practitioners. Therapists to the list after (a) autism, detection awareness training, In the list ofgroups to receive add: and (b)Occupational managementof programs sensitization on the and | educationservices services including provision training sensitization, exclude Revision of the statement to management. the public on autism detection and dissemination ofinformationto ofcare programs prevention. awareness therapy and support on Focus and the and | managementofautism toother programmeson the detection and sensitization Provide programs." education PROPOSAL sponsored and and information awareness training, | | detection andmanagement training Occupational therapists need specific and recognition autism | patterns restrictive communication/interaction presents neurodevelopmental spectrum Research evidence shows that autism disabilityrather than a disease orillness. Autism is and difficulties disorder a repetitive neurodevelopmental disability (ASD) behavior social IS and that | stakeholders broader Awareness programs need to address the REASONS community and multiple | | Agree | Agree | Agree RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION Agreea | Agree | Agree exams | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Early intervention is not only essential butalso cost-saving communities, and the State.The Bills narrow focus on childrenfailstorespondto therealities well-being long-term investment for families, for individual represents adulthood | Autistic children have unique learning needsthatrequiretailorededucational programs tohelp themreach theirfull such provisions in thebill will likely result in continuously from of excluded absence being mainstream education. children and The marginalized potential. autistic | high cognitive processing written text,or time-bound written have who REASONS Traditional learners | | The Bill shouldnot be limited to school-age interventions,but must explicitly support, training, employment, independent and assisted living options,ageing-related care,and long-term rehabilitation services forlifelong vocational and childhood including supported provide | Thebill shouldincludeprovisions for special education and training for autistic children,tailored to their unique needs and abilities | The bill should make provisions examination alternativetotraditionalwritten special PROPOSAL | | Coalition of Parents, Rights and Persons with Lived on Ivy (Human STAKEHOLDER Neurodivergence Rights Lawyer) Professionals, Caregivers, Disability Advocates Experience Convenor: Kihara | Kioi- Author andMotheroftwo autistic children Professional, Ann Healthcare Dr. | Kioi- Author andMotheroftwo autisticchildren Professional, Dr.Ann Healthcare | | CLAUSE | | Clause8 |

| (Health Section New | Clause9 | | | CLAUSE | |--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Special Calvince Education Omondi | disability neurodevelopmental experience with Concerned Mazerah Alfred Kenyan Gicheru lived of | disability neurodevelopmental experience with Concerned Mazerah Alfred Kenyan Gicheru lived of | Kangogo, Treasurer) Organization (Violet Hannah Rise Autistic Community-based | STAKEHOLDER | | allhealthinsurance providers to Add new Section "Health | and other relevant laws." Livingwith Disability Act,2025 provided for under the Persons protection shall neurodevelopmental with autism andotherrecognised Amend Clause9 to read:“persons enjoy and all privileges the conditions rights, as | training' pre-service syndrome,is integrated in both disorder (dyspraxia), and Tourette developmental specific awareness, neurodevelopmental "ensure Amend Clause 8(1)(a) to read: : that autism learning including and coordination in-service disorders, conditions and ADHD other | being generalized. singular like the other disabilities enjoy DisabilityAct 2025of Kenya just under the provisions should have aclause Autism spectrum disorder specific recognition Persons without | PROPOSAL | | services through insurance mandates, dramatically Incomparison toUSlegislationswhich improved accessto | autism neurodevelopmental disabilities. preventsinterpretiveexclusionofnon- Ensures equal legal protection and | condition awareness. developmental addressing emphasise International diverse needs, inclusive education learning not education standards single- and | recognition legislation complementary with existing disability To ensure autism-specific provisions are and given appropriate | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree: This can be addressed through regulations | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Kenya's bill needs similar provisions to ensure affordability. This bill is largely contextualizedin termsofhealth andso careof taken needstobe REASONS adequately Autism | There areno specific timeframesfor orservice As isimportanttoestablishcleartimelines tobridgethegapbetweendetection and inception of support orinterventions bill. the assessment, JO operationalization diagnosis, | | and treatment;Mandate coverage for evidence-based interventions therapy, occupational psychological services;Prohibit discrimination or coverage denial based on pre- Set for instance Ksh 500,000-1,000,000 annually for therapeutic services" diagnosis; coverage levels behavioral therapy, and autism PROPOSAL including speech therapy, existing minimum and | "Service that establishes:Maximum3-month or diagnostic Post-diagnostic support package Annual reportingon and intervention for areas failing to Timelines" waiting times by county section national governments; 01 Standardsand referral meet standards; new mechanisms assessment; timeline; Penalties Insert from | | STAKEHOLDER Practitioner Teacher | Education and Omondi Practitioner Calvince Special Teacher | | CLAUSE Insurance Coverage) | Standards Timelines) (Service Section New |

| | | Comments General | CLAUSE | |------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------| | Anonymous | Anonymous | Stakeholder Anonymous | STAKEHOLDER | | autistic learners;establish autism assistive tools;cap class size with provide special needs education (SNE); plans Provideindividualized education (IEPs); learning provide aides trained and | urban areas, cities and rural areas. affordable and accessible all over officers. caregivers, Provide for children aged 18-24 months. Implement mandatory screening teachers,and clinical training Make for diagnosis nurses, | be anchored in law. deemed necessary and this should whenever persons shouldbe allowed to represent churches, barazas, etc. Caregivers employment, discriminated under disability laws.Individuals adisease. recognized as a condition and not In law, living Itshouldbeincluded representation autism in with shouldbe healthcare, education, autism | assurance of diagnostic services. Regular PROPOSAL audit and quality | | autistic learners socialandacademic Inclusiveeducation is essentialfor the developmentof | improved outcomes critical for timely Earlyidentification and diagnosis is intervention and | across all life domains discrimination of persons with autism ensuring Legal recognition is fundamental to protection and non- | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | |------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | supportAgree long-term public costs. in partners and identification andreduce intervention Early | | normal schoolsinallthe1450wardswith center occupational therapist assisted by SNE and caregivers;KICD to develop and that supports people living with autism unitwithin resource curriculum by PROPOSAL and implement learning managed therapy | Mandate routine developmental and facilities); clinics health health private andchild and | | STAKEHOLDER | Wanjeri Rights-Based Advocate Albert | | CLAUSE | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Advocate Rights-Based AlbertWanjeri | Advocate Rights-Based | Albert Wanjeri | STAKEHOLDER | | diagnostic adulthood, childhood, Provide lifespan support covering and and mental ageing; adolescence, health adult | access regardless of location standards minimum caregivers per county in schoolswith atleast10 schools assessments;establish Care Units sensory accommodations, reasonable Basic training on autism; align with the service andin-serviceteacher in public schools;mandate pre- Plans (IEPs)for autistic learners Require Individualised Education Education Act;provide supports toensure or staffed by trained county specialists; and flexible equitable including classroom service set | across all counties caregiver provide caregivers formally recognize parents and notrelysolelyon establishreferral pathwaysthat do Community integrate autism screening into the training government-funded as Health programmes co-therapists; specialists; Strategy; | PROPOSAL | | address the complete lifespan focus only on children.The Bill must Autism is lifelong, yet most policies | structural | support imperative support.Inclusive education is a rights from school orpushed out due to lack of Many autisticchildren are excluded and requires | REASONS | | Agree | | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | To protect families from exploitation are they ensure evidence-based and ethical theBill and interventions harm, and | accountability to ensure servicesreach all personswith Clear meaningful. autismre | | vocationalandskills autistic employment employers, models, autism employment sector pathways youthandadults; for andpublic PROPOSAL services; training incentives supported STAKEHOLDER | or including "conversion anethical accreditation for autism services; guidance on evidence-basedinterventionsand augmentative communication methods;require planning abusive, unscientific practices, transition establish Prohibit harmful, and provide statutory during adolescence. and mechanism punitive therapies"; oversight assistive mandatory Wanjeri Rights-Based Advocate Albert | Establish clear complaintsand provide fordiscriminationor autism- hospital 1,000 maximum;make consultation and not public mechanisms; denialof services;cap and KSh mandatory, discretionary; guarantee relatedconsultation at charges penalties redress referral visit AlbertWanjeri Rights-Based Advocate |

| | | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | KUTTRH Therapists, Occupational Burungu Mugendi, Obuya, Gichimu, Chepkemoi, Kaunda, Mercy Geoffrey Claudius Kemunto Juliana Jared David | Advocate Rights-Based Albert Wanjeri | | STAKEHOLDER | | behavioral activities promoting centralto Occupational for treatment,and long-term support of screening, essential, explicitly Occupational therapy MUST be persons standalone component sensory recognized of earlyintervention, engagement support, daily Therapists with integration, Autism. as living, and in are an | at national and county levels committees, and advisory bodies autism-related and autism organisations on all guardians, caregivers, and rights of Mandate meaningful participation autistic adults, parents, boards, | on Human Rightsto enforcerights and Kenya National Commission reportingtoParliament forat least benefit packages;require annual NHIF/SHIF/SHA/TaifaCarefull integrateautismservices support and specialist referrals; occupational therapy,behavioural including fundingfor speech early intervention therapy into | PROPOSAL | | management of this class of patients which is extremely low to support the hired management. occupational need to recognize the core role that early screening and diagnosis,hence the Management of autism goes beyond occupational The current number of therapists play therapists is 900, in their | governance central Thosewith lived experiencemustbe to policy-making and | | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Reject:Occupational therapy is already a recognized cadre Occupational (Training, Licensing) Registration and the Therapists under Act | Agree | Agree | |-----------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | There is a critical need for training therapists tomeet the demand for autismmanagement services occupational | related servicesareessentialbutoftenexcluded creating and coverage, financial barriersfor families therapy insurance Occupational from | across the ofdiagnosis consistency country | | functional independence. PROPOSAL development | The Bill should mandate rapid occupational major universities inKenya,from undergraduate levels tomasters Moreover, ongoing training while in service to cadres allied to management of these patients should be done level. of onboarding PhD and | While thebill alreadyproposes allocationofresourcesforAutism programsitshouldfurtherrequire for occupational therapy services and like behavior 1n institutions. companies shouldbemandatedtocoversuch serviceswhichareoftenexcluded. services therapy funding and Moreover,insurance complementary therapy modification government dedicated speech | The Bill should provide for the internationally accepted,nationally standardized, and with screening tools of evidence-based assessment adoption | | STAKEHOLDER | Kemunto Claudius David Jared Geoffrey Juliana Occupational Chepkemoi, Mercy Kaunda, Gichimu, Obuya, Mugendi, Burungu Therapists, KUTTRH | Kemunto Claudius David Jared Geoffrey Juliana Occupational Chepkemoi, Mercy Kaunda, Gichimu, Obuya, Mugendi, Burungu Therapists, KUTTRH | Kemunto Claudius David Jared Geoffrey Chepkemoi, Mercy Kaunda, Gichimu, Obuya, | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | withautism Njau-Parent of child Kimberly Wanjiru | KUTTRH Therapists, Occupational Burungu Mugendi, Obuya, Gichimu, Chepkemoi, Kaunda, Mercy Juliana Geoffrey Jared David Claudius Kemunto | KUTTRH Therapists, Occupational Burungu Mugendi, Obuya, Gichimu, Chepkemoi, Kaunda, Mercy Juliana Geoffrey Jared David Claudius Kemunto | KUTTRH Therapists, Occupational Burungu Mugendi, STAKEHOLDER Juliana | | referral national The Bill autism pathway should screening establish linking and a | learning. regulation and ultimately promote promote sensorymodulation and sensory shouldmandateestablishmentof school support hire Occupational Therapists to and direct theprivate schoolsto Propose the government to place setting. integration learners while in the Moreover, units they | the plan. sensoryintegrationunits as part of should be urgently set upwith the departments do not exist, they departments. unitswithin occupational therapy and staffed the countries. autism centersinvarious parts of The bill proposes establishment of screeningandreferral pathways Incaseswhere the sensory Propose integration thatthe | health center of the diagnostic process occupational PROPOSAL workers therapists at the on of proper public | | referral pathway.Parentscurrentlyface national The Bill does not provide a clear screening, diagnosis, and | environment optimal servicessupportinclusiveeducationand School-based functioning occupational inthe therapy school | for autismmanagement occupational therapy service essential Sensory integration iS a core | REASONS | | Agree | only compel public entities. Reject:The government can | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | Agreea | Agree | |--------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | inconsistent diagnostic recognition,and prolonged systems, fragmented delays | The Bill does not impose enforceable support learners with autism.In practice, learning support or accept exclusion | While awareness is important,Kenya's service and accountability,not awareness alone challenges relate to affordability, availability, primary andaccountability rather than placing significant and | | PROPOSAL | services, educational placement;clearly specify which authorisedto diagnose reasonable health and periodsfor diagnosis. professionals are introduce and assess, community hospitals, screen, autism; | TheBill should explicitlyprovide Individualised (IEPs)for learners with autism;reasonable accommodations in all learning teachers qualifications, on escalation when TheBill shouldrebalanceitsfocus clarity parents schools fail to comply. Plans and and formandatory support/shadow for mechanism Education including complaints Wanjiru | awareness on affordability, emphasis | | STAKEHOLDER | | Wanjiru Njau-Parent of child withautism Kimberly | Njau-Parent of child withautism Kimberly | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | KidswithAutism Director, Pauline Wamukowa Mali | Kids with Autism Therapy Center for -Director, Pauline Wamukowa Mali | Kids with Autism Pauline Wamukowa Director, Mali | STAKEHOLDER | | toGrade9inwell capacitated support from Pre-Primary through guarantee consistent specialized Thelegal frameworkshould | effectively. behavioralneedsofeachlearner manage the diverse sensory and ensure teacherwithin anautismunitto maximumratioof7pupilsper TheBill thatthe should educator specify can a | optimal outcomes. education must be integrated for the seamlesslyfollowed by therapyin the morning lessons BCBA trained therapists such that occupational equippedwith a speech therapist, support departments should be all the way to Grade 9. Learning in every grade from pre-primary cross-disciplinary (SNE) by a Special Needs private schools should be staffed spectrum support Every afternoon. teacher who possesses for established within children therapists Therapy competencies public Education continue on Learning and and and the | PROPOSAL | | developmentaltransitions require journey. Autism stability Learners management onthe during isalifelong spectrum critical | predicated onindividualized attention The effectiveness of autism therapy is | integratedfor optimal outcomes being forced to fit the environment. adapted to the child rather than the child capacity Inclusive education moves away from where education the environmentis must be | REASONS | | Agree | through regulations Reject:This canbe addressed | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | already provided for in the Bill is this Agree: | Reject | |--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | on structured thrive autism and with predictability environments Learners | KISE is currently unable to meet the 47counties effectively | The Bill in its currentform is inadequate, inconsistent modelof disability.The Bill lacks cross-sectoral integration including education,social livelihood anti-discrimination developed consultation, overly medicalized,and human-rights rehabilitation, was The Bill meaningful and withthe protection, measures. access, without | | environment.It ensures that the earlyyearsto stable, catering to the learner's need for long-term therapeuticintervention remains from School PROPOSAL transition Junior | The Bill should advocate for the integrated therapy that prioritizesroutine but also allows thechildren to join other studentsinextracurricular activitieswithout shutting them out tobuild theirsocial skills.This structure isvital formaintaining the focus andattentionrequired fortheselearnerstomeettheir educational milestones. of implementation | The Bill should formalize the screening and assessment in the in thecenters 47 counties. increase | Primary Recommendation:That beWITHDRAWNto comprehensive, structured consultation with autisticpersons, disability organizations,professionals,and re-introduced in arevisedform. and caregivers, the Bill inclusive, allow | | STAKEHOLDER | Pauline Wamukowa Mali KidswithAutism Director, | PaulineWamukowa Director,Mali KidswithAutism | ofKenya Andy Special Persons Neurodivergents and 4 Society (NSK) Speaks Needs Africa | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | autisticchildren andMotherof two Professional, Healthcare Dr. Ann Kioi Author | autisticchildren andMother of two Professional, Healthcare Dr.Ann Kioi Author | autistic children andMotheroftwo Professional, Healthcare Dr.Ann Kioi Author | STAKEHOLDER | | (IEPs)for learnerswith autism ofIndividualized EducationPlans development andimplementation Expand Section 8 torequire | reduction and early help-seeking outcomes, campaigns initiatives persons with autism in awareness inclusionof caregivers Amend Section 7torequire andlinkawareness including to measurable stigma and | budgeting purposes anonymized data for planning and analysis safeguards; consent be collected; require informed defineminimum data elements to Add subsections toSection6to and and mandate publication confidentiality periodic of | substantial withdrawn):That theBill undergo Recommendation Secondary/Alternative PROPOSAL clause-by-clause (if not | | supportsfor learners with autism schools toimplementindividualized The Bill does not impose obligations on | institutions whohave lived the reality,not only effective when delivered by families social experience,nor areoutcomes defined. include caregivers orpersonswithlived Awarenessactivitiesarenotrequiredto inclusion.Messages are most | placement,and service expansion inform not only store information but actively visible system learning.A databasemust are often repeatedlyassessedwithno be used to improve services. privacy safeguards,or how the data will The Bill does not specify data standards, workforce planning, Families school | Constitution(public participation) thereby violating Article 10of the REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | Agree | |--------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | The economicburden onfamilieswith childrenwithautismis substantialand | APHRC study shows high cost ofeducationwas the most cited challenge by parents of children with autism.Most parents cited teachers was another key challenge range of educational needs. | nutrition significant symptoms. Childrenand adolescentswith autism inautism 01 indicates lead improvements interventions Research | | PROPOSAL | Families withchildrenwith autismrequiremoreresourcesto hire caregivers so the govermnment cash 01 hire some exemptions 01 parents consider support these transfers/tax caregivers should | The Ministry of Education shall ensure the learning institutions are well (bothinfrastructural, teaching and learning resources the educational and learning needs with 8(2)(a): trainees Addaclause and learners resourced autism" of | Among the ASD Interventions CRITICAL thatneeds tobe at this inception NUTRITIONisa COMPONENT putonboard | | STAKEHOLDER | Mutunga and Anyes Nyaga - Parents of childwithautism Christopher | (African and Research Center) -Dr.Fridah Kiambati,Dr. Silas Onyango, Dr. Symon Alvin Moses Population APHRC Health Kariuki, Kimani, Ngware | Cherere Clinical and Dr.Sarah Nutritionist Researcher Obara | | | | | CLAUSE |

| | | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------| | Advocate and Policy, HealthEconomics& Student John Beatrice Namunyak 一 Autism Caregiver (CUEA) Master's | Advocate and Policy, Health Economics& Student John Beatrice Namunyak Autism Caregiver (CUEA) Master's | Advocate and Policy, Health Economics& Student John Beatrice Namunyak Autism Caregiver (CUEA) Master's | STAKEHOLDER | | measureimpact effective policy collection, research TheBill should encouragefunded developmentto interventions and initiatives, evidence-based guide data and | toileting. developmental autistic children, regardless of pathwaysforschool acceptance of learning teacher training on individualized The Bill should includepractical approaches, milestones like andclear | earlyintervention. the criticalrole caregiversplayin heavyburdenfamilies carry and psychosocial caregiver mandate The Bill support should services, community-based programs, explicitly and | symptoms, ADHD PROPOSAL gastrointestinal | | resource allocation Kenya,hindering policy planning and research and empirical data on autism in There is a significant lack of local | exclusionfromschools potty-training Specific challenges such as toilet or autistic children from being admitted. ultimatums and present Current barriers educational delays stigma that practices can result prevent school often | accessible support networks andeven depression due to lack of experience social isolation,high stress, immense challenges andmanyparents Caregivers of autistic children face | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| | Agree | | RESOLUTION Agree | |-------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------| | REASONS | Currently,formal diagnosis is limited to KISE and KNH with long waiting times. charge high fees ranging minutes. financial sessions from KES 2,500 for 45-60 prohibitive Private practitioners 10,000 and therapy face Families burdens. | ADHD,Dyslexia,andothers alsoimpact families legislation solely to autism,we risk these other conditions. resultin increased tendency toover-diagnose This forward-thinking framework would ensure equitablerights for individuals many individuals and their would segregation marginalizing autism Such | | | | TheBill shouldincludemeasures tomake diagnosis and therapy affordable and widely accessible, including subsidies,public service with inevery orpartnerships trainedprofessionals coverage, county | The proposed bill should be all conditions Dyslexia, Coordination Palsy, others) limitinglegislation uO rehabilitation shouldbeincluded encompass chapter among Cerebral neurodevelopmental Developmental Microcephaly, solely to autism. dedicated 01 ratherthan revised (ADHD, Disorder, A Margie N Koech | PROPOSAL | | STAKEHOLDER | Beatrice Namunyak Master's (CUEA) Health Economics& Caregiver Autism Advocate Student Policy, John and | Margie N Koech- Occupational Occupational | Therapist | | | | | CLAUSE |

| | | | CLAUSE | |--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | withASD Mother of8-year-old USIU-Africa, ABA Co-Founder Sanaipei Ntimama- Program, Kalel | GrowBrightApp Muthuma- Nyaga Founder Alex | GrowBright App Muthuma-Founder Nyaga Alex | STAKEHOLDER | | Government that iswilling to work with the Internationally certified program The Kalel ABA Program is an trainedtointernationalstandards. that thosewhoaretrainedare groups and how will we ensure Who willprovide therequisite and County | communication teacher competence and learner GrowBright that address gaps in pathways for innovations like classrooms, and explore funding assistive education should Parliamentandrelevantministries digital reforms, support tools integrate inclusive into | equitable education. Kenya's shift would significantly improve support all learners. enteraclassroomunpreparedto education units.No teacher should foundational introduce training implementednationwide,teacher With progress institutions inclusion special This policy compulsory toward needs should already | PROPOSAL | | mustbetointernationalstandards inclusive teaching strategies. medical practitioners and for education diagnosis building and identifiestheneedforearly TheBill recognises the need for capacity and early screening Training by | communication teacher inclusive education and address gaps in Technological competence tools and can learner support | cues orstructuredroutines communicationmethodssuchasvisual strategies, meltdowns,cannotuse simple assistive struggle to calm autistic learners during support learners with disabilities.They withthefoundationalskillsneeded to Manyregular teachers arenot equipped and lack basic | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | scope of the Bill. Reject:This is beyond the | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | Agreea | Agree | |--------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | | The Bill needs to expand the rangeof professionals and service providers who management | Each child needs speech and language therapy,occupational therapy,physical medicaland and special and services areonly availableto thefew insurance who can afford private classes therapeutic assessments, tests, medical by covered Familiesneed tobe able to access can cushion the cost of therapies.Tax Exemption should be considered importationofassistive Will the abletoallow parentstoaccess theseservices Inclusionof treatments such as Stem Cell Therapies in medical | | | Governmentsto trainteachers; caregivers;communityhealth and on in a child’s life. | Training should be mandatory for State Department for Children Services, State Correctional Medical Dentists, manage a childwith ASD when medical the Force, (Doctors, a of Police for and 01 officers Department report Personnel institution. Services, Kenya they all | insurancepoliciesforthosewho that materials. policies be underSHA/SHIF? PROPOSAL devicesand Government specialised Insurance forthe | | STAKEHOLDER | | Sanaipei Ntimama- Kalel Program, Mother of 8-year-old Co-Founder USIU-Africa, withASD ABA | Sanaipei Ntimama- Kalel Program, Mother of 8-year-old Co-Founder USIU-Africa, withASD ABA | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------| | withASD Mother of 8-year-old USIU-Africa, ABA Co-Founder Sanaipei Ntimama- Program, Kalel | withASD Mother of8-year-old USIU-Africa, ABA Co-Founder Sanaipei Ntimama- Program, Kalel | withASD Mother of8-year-old USIU-Africa, ABA Co-Founder Sanaipei Ntimama - Program, Kalel | STAKEHOLDER | | andplayareastosetasidetimeper such as children's playgrounds centres offices), (Huduma centres, churches, train and bus terminals,hospitals, established at places like airports, sensory/quiet Autism friendly spaces such as such and Centres, government malls rooms should as entertainment immigration stadiums. shopping offices be | condition means Autism and there isno medical there In terms of language,please note areno ofPreventionofthe knowncausesof | acceptance inclusion, intotheframeworktopromote SUNFLOWER the acknowledged programmes like Incorporate HIDDEN awareness PROGRAMME DISABILITIES internationally and | abroadfor such treatments. would like totake their children PROPOSAL | | anxiety inpublic spaces manage sensorysensitivities andreduce sensory-friendly Autistic individuals environments benefit from to | scientificallyinaccurate about‘prevention’ofautism as thisis The Bill should avoid using language | disabilities can face. adultsand visible globally recognised symbol for non- The HiddenDisabilitiesSunflower is a disabilities children including with hidden autism. | REASONS | | reasonable accommodations. Agree: Thereisneedfor | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | | Agree | |---------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | Earlyintervention servicesare critical forimprovingdevelopmental outcomes | TheBill needs to address the transition post-secondary education and support services and adulthood 01 | Agree any laws regarding their children.They livewith this condition dailyandknow elsewhattheir better than anyone childrenneed | AutismSpectrumDisorderisacomplex that affectsmultiple domains of functioning condition neurodevelopmental | | month for children onthe PROPOSAL spectrum. | Fully equipped and funded Early shouldbe with therapies needed to help those countrywide Centres diagnosed with ASD. Intervention established | Whatwilllifelooklike fora assistance by the Government to colleges for their preferred skills.Will their families be assisted in looking after them the from financially? no system? into age get | AseatontheboardoftheNational with should be allocated for aParent/Caregiver to make sure we are included in policy Persons making and execution of Disabilities Council | assessment, long-term achieved and cannotbe intervention, Effective support | | STAKEHOLDER | Sanaipei Ntimama- Kalel Program, Mother of 8-year-old USIU-Africa, Co-Founder withASD ABA | Sanaipei Ntimama- Kalel Program, Mother of 8-year-old USIU-Africa, Co-Founder withASD ABA | Sanaipei Ntimama- Kalel Program, Mother of 8-year-old Co-Founder USIU-Africa, withASD ABA | Centre Meru/Furaha Sczescie Furaha | | CLAUSE | | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | International Sczescie Meru/Furaha Furaha | Makena Compiled by Jadlyne Caregivers, Therapists Occupational International Sczescie Meru/Furaha Furaha Centre and | Centre | STAKEHOLDER | | and | alone functional service diagnoses. services integrated conditions occurring TheBill should acknowledgeco- needs, pathways Support rather neurodevelopmental explicitly. neurodevelopmental than basedon flexible siloed Promote | outcomes,community inclusion, management toincludefunctional diagnosis Legislationshouldmovebeyond clinical | PROPOSAL | | and quality of life across the lifespan participation, Occupational independence, therapy dignity, | reflect this complexity. andadultspresentwithoverlapping mental health conditions.Many children differences, disabilities, communication Disability, occurs Autism Spectrum Disorder often co- with andAnxiety Sensory disorders, Language ADHD, andother processing Intellectual Learning and | emphasizes | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | be effectively addressed through can This regulations Agree: | education education plans is needed.Schoolsmust reasonable Agree:inclusive with specialized accommodations. make | |--------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | Integrated therapy and education during outcomes | Unplanned inclusion without proper supportcanbe harmful toboth thechild and theteacher | | PROPOSAL | The children3-5years old should be ina centre where theyreceive therapy (speech, sensory, applied modification, plus education running concurrently. therapy) occupational behaviour | regular challengesof overburdening the regular teacher, increasedfrustrationforboththe student and the teacher,low self- esteemforthelearnerandeven lossof Abetter approach is specialized centres the 01 interestin education. leading with proper staffing into has Integration classroom segregation | | STAKEHOLDER | Jean Nyambura -Director Autism StAlbans Betty Centre | Jean Nyambura-Director Autism StAlbans Betty Centre | | CLAUSE | | |

| | | | | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Nyambura-Director Betty Jean | Centre St Albans Nyambura- Director Betty Autism Jean | Centre St Albans Nyambura - Director Betty Autism Jean | Centre StAlbans Nyambura-Director Betty Autism Jean | Centre St Albans Nyambura-Director Betty Autism Jean | STAKEHOLDER | | themselves.Activities for daily children Meals should be provided and trained to feed | adults. country speech. having integrationtoregular primary education andisreadyfor should In 24 months of training the child willhave zero autistic This will have attained completedpre- ensure the expressive school | of max three months. trainers should work with targets mandatory part of the training and Toilet training shouldbea | overtheweekend. structured activitieswith parents to4pmMonday toFridayand The training hours should be 8am | has a specific role to play. caregiver. teacher, students should be handled bya one on one,equal ratio.Three Trainer Each of these persons studentratioshouldbe e therapist and P | PROPOSAL | | criticaloutcomeofautismintervention Functional independence in ADLs is a | significant progress and integration Intensiveearlyintervention can enable | and activity of daily living Toilet training is an important life skill | interventions trainingismore effective than minimal Intensive, structured, and consistent | provide individualized attention depends on adequate staffing ratios to The effectiveness of intervention | REASONS | | through regulations. Thiscanbe addressed | through regulations. This can be addressed | administrativemeasures throughregulations or other This canbe addressed | throughregulations addressed | | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree: This can be addressed through regulations | Agree | |-------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | | Intensive therapy ismore effective than sparse interventions.Autistic children are our future scientists and inventors. developmentis investing in the future of our nation their in Investing | Stigma often begins in the law itself; a inclusive and meaningful support across society.The language consistently frames autism through the lens of pathology rather than practice, for foundation ethical human diversity use the attitudes, Bill's sets | | living (ADLs) should be part of PROPOSAL the program. | Vigorous advertising to educate the society onthe symptoms/signs isnot autism that autism, stigma. of | week therapy sessions and instead have sessions. Therapy is a lifestyle not the children recover quickly and relieve the stress and mental pain per hour one on the parent. Abolish | The Bill be comprehensively inclusive, explicitly recognise terminology rather diversity adopt broader affirms 01 autismas than deficit language, revised consider which | | STAKEHOLDER Autism St Albans Centre | Jean Nyambura-Director Autism Albans Centre Betty 1S | Jean Nyambura-Director Autism Albans Centre Betty St | Coalition of Parents, Rights and PersonswithLived uo Ivy (Human Neurodivergence Rights Lawyer) Professionals, Caregivers, Experience Disability Advocates Convenor: Kihara | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | (Kiambu County) autistic Samwel child Maina | (Kiambu County) autistic Wangari-Parent of Samwel child Maina | (Kiambu County) autistic Wangari - Parent of Samwel child Maina | (Kiambu County) autistic Wangari - Samwel STAKEHOLDER -Parent of child Maina | | funding and services. timelines and ensure implementation, The Bill should require:Regular counties transparency on comply, Parliament Clear on | protection for caregivers. Workplace supportor care services,Mental health The Bill should include:Respite tax relief measures, flexibility financial and | orassistants(shadowteachers). Classroom support such as aides Education accommodation, schools, Inclusiveeducationinmainstream The Bill should clearly require: Plans Reasonable Individual (IEPs), | andaccommodation identification, support,inclusion, of Remove references to‘prevention PROPOSAL autism' and replace with | | not seereal change Withoutaccountability, families may | alone arenot sufficient financial exhaustion. Caregivers face emotional,physical, and Support groups | support in classrooms alone isnot enoughwithoutpractical unsupported Many autistic children are excluded or the child or the parents in schools. Awareness | this language, it could lead to bad and theirfamilies.Should theBill retain stigma and may harm autistic children Autism isnotadiseaseand cannotbe REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | Agree RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | |--------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | are for childrenwith autism.Autism shouldbe Governmentina mannercomparabletootherlong-term Early diagnosis and intervention developmental andhealthconditions outcomes improving supportedbythe in critical | public Kenya, delayed limited diagnosis,and social exclusion in stigma, autism currently 01 of contributing iS awareness There | | PROPOSAL | diagnostic units at sub-county and county referral hospitals.Integrate routine maternal and child health services. intervention speech therapy,occupational therapy,and behavioural support. Ensure these heavily for low- Subsidize and where interventions into medications including especially free families. screening early medically required. are autism Provide services, services subsidized, income essential therapeutic | autism campaigns. websites, schools, and community forums.Partner with and foundationswhose coremandate Granttax 01 in autism awareness, care, and incentives outlets, organizations nationwide government facilities, support. media and Implement awareness through health churches, registered autism exemptions advocacy. | | STAKEHOLDER | Helping Hands Foundation- Linet Atieno Ouma &Douglas Otieno Autism | Helping Hands Foundation LinetAtienoOuma &Douglas Otieno Autism | | CLAUSE | | |

| | | CLAUSE | |------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | &Douglas Otieno Linet Atieno Ouma Hands Foundation- Autism Helping | &Douglas Otieno Linet Atieno Ouma Hands Foundation Autism Helping | STAKEHOLDER | | primary caregiver. income support tooneparentor employing or providing structured work severeautismwhoareunableto spectrum.For individuals with individuals private taxation. persons income qualified Adoptpoliciestoactively employ independently, employers Provide incentives to with earned persons on the autism by with who employed consider autism autism hire from | repetition. through individuals recognizing training spectrum. varying adapted occupational therapists.Develop education,including speech and qualified recruit, within Establish specialized autism units at Introduce levelsof curriculathatcaterto in and public observation learn that an special retain schools. many autistic earlier the effectively vocational teachers autism needs Train, age, and | PROPOSAL | | stability time carewhile maintainingeconomic would enable families toprovide full- skills face barriers to employment.This Many autisticindividualswho acquire | shouldbetailoredtoautisticlearners recognized certificates and diplomas children Access toinclusive and appropriate with autism. Government- | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Agree Caregivers play a central role in the and national Recognizing increasing unsupported. while REASONS capacity quality often | and and identification coordinated diagnosis across the country comprehensive ensure | excludedfrommainstreameducation | | caregiver Formally Provide psychosocial support services for certification professionalize expand employment opportunities. specialized role. programs. Create and that essential PROPOSAL Establish training caregivers. pathways caregiving and | Standardized national screening and adopted across schools,ECD centers,and health facilities.The multi- teams, educational psychologists, speech therapists, therapists. county-level especiallyin Schools shouldbe whendevelopmental concerms are require assessment occupational fundsfor assessment hubs, should disciplinary ruralareas. including Provide observed. Bill and | Require all schools (public and toestablishminimum SEN/Learning Support teacher,IndividualizedEducation SENstructures private) trained | | Helping Hands Foundation- LinetAtienoOuma STAKEHOLDER & Douglas Otieno Autism | Pathways Hub (IPH) -Jennifer Lead Inclusive Consultant Ondiek, | Pathways Hub (IPH)-Jennifer Lead Inclusive Consultant Ondiek, | | CLAUSE | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Hub(IPH)-Jennifer Inclusive Pathways | Consultant | Ondiek, Hub (IPH)-Jennifer InclusivePathways Lead | STAKEHOLDER | | Council including MoH, MoE, Establish aNational Autism | dysregulation. behaviors arising from sensory isolation outdated protectlearnersfromharmfulor behavior plans. overload, classroom linewith refusing Schoolsmust be prohibitedfrom or practices, and adaptations, Article admission punishment The Bill should e.g. personalized 54 based reduced forced ofthe for on | adulthood). →Vocational (ECD→Primary→High School support supervision. and teachers and inclusive assistants developmenton autism.Shadow receive continuous professional adjustments.All teachers should accommodation,Sensory-friendly Plans operate structured (IEPs), Schools under training transitions Reasonable should school or | PROPOSAL | | servicedelivery acrosssectors Toensure coordinated and effective | | practices in schools from To ensure autisticlearners areprotected discrimination and harmful | REASONS | | Agree | | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | Agree | these as are therapists already regulated by law. such of some professionals occupational Agree: | |--------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | | To ensure resources are available to autism of implementation support programs | by professionals accreditation professionals teachers, behavior specialists,etc.Require professional | | PROPOSAL | andparent advocates.Require collaboration betweenministriesto streamline school placement, therapies,and data management. mandatethe Ministry of Education to publish onautism-inclusive schoolenvironments. MoSD,NGOs, should assessments, The Bill guidelines | should annually. Subsidiesshould beavailablefor toaccess assistive specialized schooling.Schools should receive grantsforsensoryrooms,learning support materials, and training of LSCs, SENCOs, and inclusive governments programmes families medication, and low-income technology, therapy, assistants. County receive autism Inclusive Pathways Hub (IPH)-Jennifer Lead | shadow for an framework therapists, Create | | STAKEHOLDER | Lead Consultant Ondiek, | Inclusive Pathways Hub (IPH)-Jennifer Lead Consultant Ondiek, Ondiek, | Consultant | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Margaret Thongori | ofMombasa Technical University Inclusion Metet Jonathan Advocate, Disability Cheruiyot | Consultant Ondiek, Hub (IPH)- Inclusive Pathways -Jennifer Lead | STAKEHOLDER | | involved include all licensedprofessionals Expand the definition to explicitly in multidisciplinary | segregation. promote inclusion Institutional sufficient budgetary allocations. mainstream accommodation be addressed through reasonable Disability-specific needs should indirect framework Disabilities are consideredwithin EnsurethatallPersonswith unified frameworks should to legal systems avoid director discrimination. rather than and policy within with | reasonable accommodation. refuse admission or fail to provide clear penalties forinstitutions that or denialof services. complaint andredressmechanism implemented. provided, children annual should Schools reports on:Number of be required to submit andhealth assessed, Establish Accommodation Introduce Services facilities | PROPOSAL | | excludescrucialprofessionalswhoform The current restrictive definition | unintended exclusion creating equivalent provisions for others legislative separate administrative,institutional,or Singling out one disability category for unequal treatment-without protection risks and | enforcementof theBill'sprovisions To ensure accountability | REASONS | | Agree | Persons with Disability Act. complementarity Agree:The Bill provides for withthe | and countyorministerial level. parliament should be at the Agree:although reporting to | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree | Agree | committee howeverisoftheviewthat be should undertaken byKISE. The training Agree: the | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | the backbone of autism assessment, therapy,andlong-termmanagement REASONS | only diagnosis. Limiting these facilities todiagnosticsminimizes the broader their and needs of autistic persons families | orperformance ariskofnon- penalties, This creates implementation deadlines, audits. | College trains themajorityof health 01 develop specialized autism programs to mandated Training andshouldbe Medical Kenya (KMTC) workers | | autism management, including: Occupational Therapists,Speech and Language Therapists, Clinical Counselling Psychiatrists, Paediatric Neurologists, Special Behaviour Educators, analysts/therapists. Psychologists, Psychologists, PROPOSAL Needs | Centres" "Autism (AMCs), early diagnosis, therapies, training, psychosocial support, school transition support, services, provide: "Diagnostic comprehensive Management Centres" technology vocational preparation. & parent/caregiver 8 intervention Replace screening assistive which with | compliance operationalize centres, autism units, and data systems. management enforceable 01 failure autism Add for | Include a statutory requirement forKMTC to develop specialized autism training programs specificallyfor: diploma-level higher | | STAKEHOLDER | Margaret Thongori | Margaret Thongori | Margaret Thongori | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Margaret Thongori | Margaret Thongori | Margaret Thongori | STAKEHOLDER | | financing for autism management ensure Create a National AutismFund to predictable, protected | entry. 6,12,18&24months,and school protocols inMCHclinics at birth, Mandate workplaceaccommodations national screening | autism systems education, Secretary TheBill must require the Cabinet use. autism care,assistive technology interventionskills,family-centred therapy, techniques, behavioural assessment Programs should include: autism Community and Occupational Therapists,Speech Language management. for and social protection tointegrate sensory health comprehensive communication integration intervention frameworks, Therapists, workers. health, This in autism management increasenationalworkforce competent | PROPOSAL | | risksinconsistentimplementation Current financing language is vague and | screening schedules objective, Although early the Bill detection is a stated lacks concrete | continue to fall through systemic gaps integration, community functioning, Autism affects autistic inclusion. employment, learning, persons Without social will this and | REASONS | | insurance Partly agree:there isneedfor coverage for | regulations addressed Agree: this however can be through | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| 01 alleviate thefinancial burden. Autism RESOLUTION with persons | Agree | Agree | Agree | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | The Bill requires databases but lacks reporting for compulsory from all facilities provisions | Caregiver burnout and financial strain adequately are significant addressed | Early identification ofASDimproves functioning, and achievement, social communication, independence academic | | medicalinsurancefirmstocover autism interventions,awareness, and community support. | Mandate real-time reporting from public andprivate healthfacilities, centres, with reporting services rehabilitation social requirements. mandatory schools, and | caregiver respite care,financial assistance, andworkplaceprotections. guaranteed including Introduce support, | The Government of Kenya can early 18-24 months,with targeted screening at entryto transitions between classes). Primary health careworkerstobetrainedto recognise red flags (e.g., limited joint attention,reduced pretend play,language delay) and to refer forASDat universal (e.g, school, key milestones implement screening promptly. primary | | PROPOSAL STAKEHOLDER | Margaret Thongori | Margaret Thongori | on Autism Management Bill Ngeta Contributor Oliver Kenya | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Contributor Oliver Ngeta on | Management Bill Kenya Contributor Oliver Ngeta Autism on | Management Bill Kenya Contributor OliverNgeta Autism on | STAKEHOLDER | | informed provide or subsidise evidence The Government of Kenya to home programs, | occur at least twiceperyear. caregiver support. ISP reviews to supports, accommodations, accommodations, skills Communication multidisciplinary team, detailing: (ISP) Every diagnosed learner to have developed Family targets, goals, training and Behavioural Academic Sensory Social by | 6-12months. Comprehensive diagnosis within months targets:Initial assessment within3 assessments specialists) therapists, therapists, psychologists, teams Multidisciplinary socioeconomic all A publicly children, (pediatricians, of with and speech to funded, regardless clear occupational referral, time conduct education language child diagnostic status. timely of | PROPOSAL | | burden effectivecareandreducing caregiver To support | andneeds support tailored to individual strengths To ensure personalized,evidence-based | socioeconomicstatus diagnosis To ensure all children have access to regardless of their | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | Agree | Agree | |--------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | | workplace and accommodations reduce stigma unlockeconomicparticipation and education Inclusive | learners autistic economicopportunities prepare To learning, | | PROPOSAL | speech and and respite Accessto assistive communication devices, apps,and other AAC tools tobe made affordable and accessible to coaching, activities, carewhereneeded. parental language all. | Right toinclusive education in restrictive 01 differentiated instruction, flexible grouping, and Mandatory training for teachers ASD Classroom accommodationstoincludevisual sensory-friendly assessment methods,and access to in-school Curriculum to integrate social development, ICT enabled supports.Vocational and Schools and on least staff alternative communication environments. school appropriate, implement awareness. schedules, therapies. emotional spaces, and on Autism | | | STAKEHOLDER | Management Bill | uo Autism Management Bill Ngeta Contributor Oliver Kenya | Autism Management Bill Ngeta Contributor Kenya Oliver Kenya | | CLAUSE | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------| | Parent,Mombasa Milton Onyiro | Management Bill Kenya Contributor Oliver Ngeta Autism on | Management Bill Kenya Contributor Oliver Ngeta Autism on | STAKEHOLDER | | curriculum tailoredtoautism. integrated special education units, autism-specific Establish government-funded facilities,and schools or | accommodations. job as with ASD through incentives such encouragedtohire individuals employment. apprenticeships, placement, Service (NTES) to assist with job Transition Establishment coaching taxrelief, programs. Employers tobe and and subsidies, and of internships, Employment a workplace supported Ongoing National and | community participation. living skills, employmentoptions,independent Vocational training and supported education and technical training) opportunities annually,focusing on:Education later than age14 andbereviewed Transition planning to begin no (including higher | individual goals. secondary school, PROPOSAL alignedwith | | autistic persons and their families. in the Bill. Access to appropriate AutismPublicSchoolsarenotincluded | participation To support autistic adults in accessing | appropriate support and opportunities successfully To ensure autistic individuals transition to adulthood with | REASONS | | Agree | therole. beempoweredtoundertake National Autism Council can Reject: The proposed | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | There is however need for a multidisciplinary consultation of ministry the stakeholder including Education. Agree: | Agree | Agree | Agree | |--------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | FreeMedical Treatmentis onlypartially included (affordable'services).Without guarantee offree services,familiesface essentialhealthcare. | FreeEducation isnotincluded in the have equitable access to quality education without financial burden on families. must persons Autistic Bill. | Employment Opportunities in Public Sector are not included in the Bill. 01 meaningful employment and economic pathways need adults participation. Autistic | included in the Bill. Safe,affordable housing is essential for independent living and dignity for autistic adults. | To protect dignity,privacy,and rights. protections against discrimination and privacy violations in all sectors. | | PROPOSAL | diagnostic, therapeutic, and medical services therapies (speech,occupational, behavioral) in public hospitals. free Guarantee | Ensurefree educationfor persons with autism at all levels,ncluding inclusive learning support, tuition coverage,and assistive learning materials. | action orreasonable for employing persons with autism in the public affirmative policies,quotas, accommodations Introduce sector. | Provide for affordable housing living semi- optionsfor adultswith autism. supported including schemesor arrangements, | Anyautism datacollectedmust respect privacy and consent,in linewith theDataProtectionAct. be protectedfromdiscriminationin should persons Autistic | | STAKEHOLDER | Onyiro Parent,Mombasa Milton | Onyiro Parent,Mombasa Milton | Onyiro Parent,Mombasa Milton | Onyiro Parent, Mombasa Milton | Onyiro Parent,Mombasa Milton | | CLAUSE | | | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------| | ofa Parentandcaregiver Irene child onthe Kimani | Kajiado County autism ofa Parent and caregiver Irene child Kimani spectrum, onthe | Kajiado County autism ofa Parent and caregiver Irene child Kimani spectrum, onthe | STAKEHOLDER | | Teachers: Workforceand Strengthen Provisions on Therapy The Special Bill should Needs | beyond diagnosis. therapeutic and support services ensure and Autism be expandedanddesignatedas Bill Establish Diagnostic,Treatment Management Diagnostic, currently access to These should Centres emphasizes ongoing Treatment to | management. core nutrition and psychosocial interventions, occupational therapy,behavioural speechand Bill multidisciplinary defined management shouldbe clearly Management: Expand theDefinitionofAutism components should education, as language explicitly process. a of feeding therapy, lifelong, autism include Autism The | services. healthcare,education,and public PROPOSAL | | centres, the Bill's objectives cannot be deployedacrossschoolsandautism Without qualified professionals | persons and their families. TheBill focusesprimarilyon diagnosis | rather than comprehensive support. limiting implementation to diagnosis broad andmaybeinterpretednarrowly, clarity,the term‘management‘remains autism support,and caregiver training aspartf necessary this establishment of diagnostic centres.In early TheBill already explicitlyprovidesfor context, screening, management. for Bill to also explicitly it diagnosis, is reasonableand Without andthe such | REASONS | | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Agree Agree | | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------| | trainedprofessionals remain unemployedwhile demandfor realized.Many servicesisunmet. REASONS | Without specific budget allocations and and underfunded fragmented across sectors. remain will | abletoaccessallentitlementsavailable | | recruitment, employment,and deployment of teachers, occupational autism- related professionals, leveraging the existing pool of trained but personnel. professionals within institutions of learning and investment to enable andother functional access education on an equal basis,and participate specialneeds other meaningfully in society. autism attain therapists, these the and personswith disabilities to independence, PROPOSAL unemployed Integrating therapists, necessary mandate trained speech spectrum, | Strengthen Budget Transparency Bill should introduce autism-specific budget lines,mandatory public reporting on autism expenditure, bothnational andcountylevelsto and The accountability effective use of resources. Accountability: ensure and | Rights and Entitlements:The Bill should require autism units to | | STAKEHOLDER Kajiado County autism | Parent and caregiver ofachild on the spectrum, Kajiado County and the Commissionon Allocation Kimani Revenue autism (CRA). Irene | Parent and caregiver ofachildonthe Kimani Irene | | CLAUSE | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Association (KOTA) Therapists' Kenya Occupational | Kajiado County autism ofachild on the Parent and caregiver Irene Kimani spectrum, | Kajiado County autism spectrum, | STAKEHOLDER | | based,and home-based services; private, Ensure participation-based multidisciplinary,functional,and lifespan; standalone broadly; neurodevelopmental Management Bill,2025 to cover Neurodevelopmental Rename Expand the scope of the Bill: community, inclusion Explicitly service of approaches; across as a core, recognize conditions Conditions school- public, Embed the | to social protectionmechanisms. psychosocial support,and linkage structured recognize caregiversandprovide TheBill Strengthen caregiver education, Caregiver should formally Support: | opportunities. taxreliefs,and affirmative action education support,medical cover, including Living with Disability Act, 2025, entitlements actively inform social under the Persons caregivers protection, and and | PROPOSAL | | the lifespan. and community-based supports across functional, medical requires interaction, learning, affect participation in daily activities, Autismandotherneurodevelopmental environmental, intervention; more work,andindependent communication, than educational, it requires social and | persons. wellbeing of both caregivers and autistic mechanisms are Formal Caregivers face recognition essential significant and forthe support mental | outreach and integration of services. under disability law,requiring proactive | REASONS | | include comorbidities. of the definition of Autism to Agree:This can however be | Agree | | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Asabove | Agree | Agree | Agree | Agree | |-------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | To inclusively address autism, ADHD, dyscalculia, Tourette's syndrome,OCD,and related conditionswithsharedbarriers. dyspraxia, dyslexia, | Occupational therapists arecentral to the multidisciplinary approach, supporting participation, independent living, and community inclusion. school readiness, play, vocational living, | sectors and professions. | 01 access equitable settings and populations. ensure | TheSocial HealthAuthority(SHA) and cover neurodevelopmentalconditionservices acrossoutpatient,inpatient,and school- should providers insurance | | and education,and social sectors. development, PROPOSAL workforce | Recommendation 1:Rename the Bill to the Neurodevelopmental Bill, Management Conditions 2025. | 2:Explicitly Therapy as a core service in screening, diagnosis, intervention, and long- Recommendation term support. | Mandate multidisciplinary practice across social and 3: Recommendation education, health, sectors. | Integrate public, private, community-based, school-based 4: Recommendation and home-based, OT services. | Recommendation 5:Require SHA condition neurodevelopmental insurance services. and | | STAKEHOLDER | Kenya Occupational Association (KOTA) Therapists' | Kenya Occupational Association (KOTA) Therapists' | Kenya Occupational Association (KOTA) Therapists' | Kenya Occupational Association (KOTA) Therapists' | Kenya Occupational Association (KOTA) Therapists' | | CLAUSE | | | | | |

| | | | | | CLAUSE | |---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | with Concerned Mazerah Alfred Kenyan Gicheru lived | Association(KOTA) Therapists' Kenya Occupational | Association (KOTA) Therapists' Kenya Occupational | Association (KOTA) Therapists' Kenya Occupational | Association (KOTA) Therapists' Kenya Occupational | STAKEHOLDER | | Governments "The Insert anewclauseunderPartIII: National shall and ensure County | systems. development, formulation, representation Recommendation 9: research, Ensure OT and data guideline policy | governments. between MOH,MOE,and county therapists in schools and MOUs placement Recommendation of occupational 8:Mandate | departments. occupational sensory integration unitswithin Recommendation Establish therapy | nationally. workforce education, Recommendation 6:Expand OT training, development and | PROPOSAL | | end at adolescence;transition planning outcomesdeclinesharplywhereservices EvidencefromOECDandWHO shows | based and practical approaches. servicedevelopmenttoensureevidence- involved in all aspects ofpolicy and Occupational therapistsmust be actively | must be established,with occupational hospitals, Clear referral schools, pathways and communities linking | services. comprehensive integration To provide therapyas occupational specialized partof therapy sensory | development for in-service practitioners. levels, diploma, conditions should be mandatedat OT training with continuous professional degree, inneurodevelopmental masters, andPhD | accessibility. based REASONS settings to ensure financial | | Agree | Agree a | Agree | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | | Agree | Agree | Agree | |--------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | REASONS | effective of neurodevelopmental policy. element core isa | Occupational therapy is not explicitly mentionedin theBill asacoreservice. providing multidisciplinary assessments individualized that address activities of daily living,ducation,and plans implementing vocational preparation. occupation-based and | Limited access to specialized services outside major urban centers.Familiesin costs, exacerbating caregiver stress and child to due treatment outcomes. forgo | To ensure that legislation translates into practicalimprovementsinoutcomesfor autistic individuals and families,and thatresources are allocated efficiently basedon evidence. ongoing of | | PROPOSAL | persons with autism andother conditions during transition from childhood toadulthood,includingvocational training,supported employment, neurodevelopmental | Explicit inclusion of occupational multidisciplinary diagnostic and intervention teams. in therapists | Provisions for subsidies or SHA coverage for essential therapies to address affordability barriers. | evaluation program effectiveness. for and Mechanisms monitoring | | STAKEHOLDER | of neurodevelopmental experience disability | Dominic Kipkirui- Pwani and Therapy Occupational Occupational Therapist, Services Hand | Dominic Kipkirui Pwani and Therapy Occupational Occupational Therapist, Services Hand | Dominic Kipkirui- Pwani and Therapy Occupational Occupational Therapist, Services. Hand | | CLAUSE | | | | |

| | | | CLAUSE | |-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | autistic son ofan NoahAmolo-Father 1l-year-old | autisticson ofan1l-year-old NoahAmolo-Father | autisticson ofan1l-year-old NoahAmolo-Father | STAKEHOLDER | | every public primary school. inspecial needs educationin classroom with a teacher trained dedicated children with andresourced per constituency to beintegrated mandate (i) At least one school Schools or Classrooms: The Bill EstablishmentofSpecial Needs special autism,or (ii) A toaccommodate needs/autism | Autism. Disability a childpresents a valid National subsidized or provided free when medically-necessary for Free orSubsidizedMedical Tests Autistic Card Children: indicating tests be All | with disabilitiesreceive priority. howexpectantmothersorpersons emergency ailments, service in clinics for all non- children Children Priority Servicefor be in granted Clinics: similar to priority Autistic Autistic | PROPOSAL | | for autistic learners across the country. inclusion,and equalaccessto education will friendly classrooms or trained staff.This schoolsoftenlack dedicatedautism- any special needs school, and public Access to appropriate education remains promote early intervention, | access to healthcare. strainonfamiliesandensure equitable possibilities.Thiswill ease the financial often run multiple tests to rule out symptoms, childrenareunable toexplaintheir Non-verbalor meaning semi-verbal clinicians must autistic | care safer and more humane. protect theirwellbeing andmake clinical treatment for their children. complicated shutdownsin thechildandmakeit trigger extreme distress,meltdowns,or health facilities.These situations often and sensory overstimulation, Children with autism often struggle with unpredictable for parents environments long queues, This will to seek in | REASONS | | Plans. individualized inclusiveeducationwith Reject: There is need for Education | Agree | Agree | RESOLUTION |

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

THESENATESTANDINGCOMMITTEEONHEALTH

| RESOLUTION | Reject:This law is specific to | | providesforcomplementarity | with Persons the with | |----------------------|--------------------------------------|-------------------|------------------------------|-------------------------| | REASONS | thereisthereforeariskofduplicationof | law. with | | | | PROPOSAL STAKEHOLDER | PersonswithAutismarecovered of | Persons the under | Disabilities Act. | | | | TheCouncil | Governors County | and Commissionon | RevenueAllocation | | CLAUSE | | | | |