In the late 1990s, autism remained largely unrecognised in Eritrea, with little to no understanding of the condition and virtually no support systems in place. Parents of children with autism struggled in isolation, lacking access to information, services, or community support. In response to this urgent need, a group of concerned parents approached the Eritrean Relief Association (ERA) for guidance on how to better support their children and raise awareness about autism within the broader society.
There was a complete absence of public awareness and understanding of autism in Eritrea, which resulted in widespread misconceptions and social stigma. Families were left without formal diagnosis pathways, access to specialised care, or trained professionals to guide them. No formal structures existed to provide education, advocacy, or tailored support for children with autism, and parents, teachers, and caregivers lacked the knowledge and tools needed to meet their children’s unique developmental needs.
ERA advised the parents to form a dedicated support organisation, leading to the formal establishment of the Autism Association in Eritrea the country’s first body focused on autism and neurodevelopmental conditions. ERA collaborated closely with the parents to help shape the association’s framework, objectives, and initial activities, ensuring they were grounded in the real needs of the families they sought to serve.
To build practical capacity, ERA facilitated the involvement of a UK-based Eritrean nutritionist with expertise in autism, who delivered comprehensive training for parents, teachers, and caregivers. The training covered essential aspects of autism care, including dietary needs, behavioural support, communication strategies, and inclusive learning practices. ERA also provided crucial materials and therapeutic play equipment to support early intervention, while covering travel and implementation costs for the training programme.
