(Monrovia, Liberia, April 2, 2026) — Stakeholders across the country’s health, education, and social sectors have vowed to take urgent and coordinated action to promote inclusivity and strengthen support systems for individuals living with autism.
The commitment was reaffirmed Thursday during a national program marking the observance, organized by the Ministry of Health through its Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries (NCDI) Unit in collaboration with partners.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Gabriel Gorbee Logan, Technical Assistant to the Chief Medical Officer of the Republic of Liberia, underscored the importance of early diagnosis and access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities to enable individuals with autism to lead fulfilling lives.
“Autism is not a limitation; it is a unique way of experiencing the world,” Dr. Logan said, urging society to embrace understanding, inclusion, and compassion.
He reaffirmed the Government of Liberia’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system to better respond to the needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.
This year’s observance, held under the theme “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value,” emphasized the dignity and worth of all individuals with autism as part of a shared human future.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Moses Massaquoi, Country Director of the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), stressed the need to move beyond awareness to concrete action that addresses systemic gaps in care and inclusion.
Dr. Massaquoi commended the Ministry of Health, particularly the Office of the Chief Medical Officer and the NCDI Unit, for their leadership, while recognizing individuals on the autism spectrum and their families for their resilience.
“This reality calls for urgent and sustained action,” he emphasized, pointing to the need for early detection, expansion of specialized services, and increased public awareness.
He further highlighted the importance of stronger collaboration among key government institutions, including the Ministries of Health, Education, and Gender, Children, and Social Protection, as well as development partners.
Dr. Massaquoi called for enhanced support to families and caregivers, noting that many continue to face stigma, limited resources, and emotional challenges in caring for individuals with autism.
“Behind every individual with autism is a family that needs empowerment, information, and support,” he stated.
He urged policymakers to integrate autism services into national frameworks, strengthen screening and referral systems, and promote inclusive environments in schools and workplaces.
Dr. Massaquoi also emphasized the unique strengths of individuals on the autism spectrum, including creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities.
“Our responsibility is not to define limitations, but to create environments where these strengths can flourish,” he asserted.
Also speaking, Mrs. Theresa W. Garwo, Director of the Special and Inclusive Education Division at the Ministry of Education, expressed appreciation for the growing collaboration between the education and health sectors.
She highlighted ongoing efforts to train teachers and schools on autism awareness and inclusive education practices to ensure children with autism receive the support they need.
Mrs. Garwo described the progress as encouraging and commended stakeholders for their continued commitment to advancing inclusion.
“As we continue to develop and implement policies, it is gratifying to see tangible progress being made,” she noted.
She also lauded the Ministry of Health and its partners for organizing the event, describing it as a significant step toward raising awareness and promoting inclusivity nationwide.
Meanwhile, Madam Jamesetta G. Smith, Director of the NCDI Unit, praised stakeholders for their strong partnership and renewed commitment to increasing awareness and improving support services for people living with autism.
She emphasized that sustained collaboration and investment will be critical in addressing existing gaps and ensuring that individuals on the autism spectrum are not left behind.
The Ministry of Health vowed to work with stakeholders and partners in advancing inclusivity and strengthening support systems for individuals living with autism across Liberia.