Supporting Autistic Children in Burundi
Autisme Burundi is a small, dedicated centre providing essential support for autistic children and their families. Resources for autism are incredibly limited in Burundi, and many children do not have access to assessments, therapy, communication tools or schooling.
The centre exists to bridge that gap by offering a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, communicate, play and receive personalised support.
Challenges Faced by Children and Families
Families of autistic children in Burundi experience significant barriers:
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Limited public awareness and understanding of autism.
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No government-funded autism services.
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No access to speech and language therapy.
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Limited to no access to educational placements.
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High costs of specialist resources such as tablets, AAC apps, visual supports and sensory tools.
Despite these challenges, Autisme Burundi works tirelessly to provide support, acceptance and hope for children who would otherwise go unseen.
The Centre
The original centre has been supporting autistic children since 2019, with a second site opening in 2025. Each site includes three classrooms, with a dedicated teacher and support staff in each class, as well as an on-site therapist. Therapists work one-to-one with children to support their individual communication, learning and developmental targets.
Across both sites, the centre currently supports around 30 children, but there is spaces for more!
What the Centre Does
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Provides early intervention and structured learning activities.
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Offers parent workshops to help families understand and support their children.
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Trains staff in autism‑specific strategies.
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Creates opportunities for social interaction and play in a safe, understanding environment.
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Raises awareness across the country
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Lobbies for more support
My Volunteering Work
My volunteering journey began in 2025, with my first visit to the centre in October
This included:
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Training for staff.
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Providing speech and language therapy resources.
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Advice on communication, sensory regulation and autism‑friendly strategies.
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Donations of equipment such as iPads, Widgit Online licences, toys and educational materials.
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I will be continuing to support the centre remotely, and with future visits. I am proud to be sponsoring a child named Don Delice, helping to secure his place at the centre so he can access the specialist support he deserves. I look forward to meeting him in person on my next visit to Burundi and seeing how he is getting on.
Ways You Can Help
Donate Time
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Volunteer - do you have expertise you could share online or in person?
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Help translate or adapt materials (English/French).
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Spread awareness by sharing posts.
Donate Money
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Help fund school placements.
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Support the purchase of technology, specialist software, toys and materials.
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Help fund future visits.
Donate Items
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Toys, books, and equipment.
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iPads or tablets for AAC.
Sponsor a Child
Just £30 per month can completely change a child’s access to education and communication support. Sponsorship provides:
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A guaranteed place at the centre.
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Meals.
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Access to trained staff.
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Learning and play resources.
