Neuro Kids Warriors Call for End to Stigma as Kenya Marks Hydrocephalus Awareness Month

(Sharon Awino of Neuro Kids Warriors during the world world marks Hydrocephalus at Kise,) photo courtesy

As the world marked Hydrocephalus Awareness Month, Neuro Kids Warriors, in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, called for an end to stigma and misconceptions surrounding hydrocephalus and spina bifida.

Speaking during the commemorations, Sharon Awino of Neuro Kids Warriors emphasized that the two conditions remain among the most silent disabilities in Kenya, often shrouded in myths and cultural misconceptions.

“Many still believe that a child with hydrocephalus is a result of witchcraft or infidelity. But the truth is, hydrocephalus is just like any other disability. It can be managed, though not cured,” Awino said.

The day’s events focused on awareness creation, caregiver support, education, and breaking stigma in communities. Awino urged Kenyans to embrace children with hydrocephalus and spina bifida, noting that discrimination only compounds the struggles faced by affected families.

She lauded the support of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE), and partners such as CBM, KG Girls, and Child Health International for facilitating therapies, bursaries, and advocacy campaigns.

“Today, children with hydrocephalus and spina bifida have access to free therapies and bursaries for education, thanks to government partnerships. Through the Social Health Authority (SHA), many have also benefited from surgeries that have transformed lives,” she added.

Awino further called for urgent attention to sexual and reproductive health needs of children with disabilities, describing it as a neglected area in both policy and practice.

She also acknowledged nominated Senator Crystal Asige for championing disability rights and pushing for the Caregivers Act, which seeks to ease the burden on families.

“To my fellow caregivers, let’s keep going. Don’t give up, don’t lose hope. Together, through partnerships, awareness, and policy, we can change the narrative for children with hydrocephalus and spina bifida,” she said.