Light Cubes Crafted by Children with Autism Illuminate Lake Kivu for Global Awareness
On the night of August 15, 2024, the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu in Rwanda’s Karongi District transformed into a vibrant symbol of hope and advocacy as Autism Rwanda hosted a unique event to raise global awareness about autism.
The centerpiece of the event was an art installation featuring “Light Cubes,” crafted by children with autism who were participating in a camp in Karongi. These luminous cubes, set adrift on the lake, represent the innovation, inclusion, and abilities of children with autism in Rwanda and across Africa. The powerful message they convey resonates far beyond the continent.
The event attracted significant attention, with representatives from Karongi District, Hotel Cleo, local security organs, and the artist Jérôme TOQ’R in attendance. This occasion marked the first time such an installation had been presented on Lake Kivu, underscoring a significant moment for the local community and the broader cause of autism awareness.
Rosine Duquesne Kamagaju, Director of Autism Rwanda, spoke to the importance of the Light Cubes. “These cubes symbolize the innovation, inclusion, and abilities of children with autism who live in Rwanda and throughout Africa. Our aim is to raise awareness worldwide,” she stated.
Kamagaju further elaborated on the challenges faced by children with autism, noting that the condition is often characterized by three main difficulties: challenges in speech, social behavior, and relationships.
When a child reaches the age of two or three and does not call ‘mom’ or ‘dad,’ it signals a problem in speech. Even earlier, one can see symptoms that need attention,”
she emphasized.
The Light Cubes project is part of Autism Rwanda’s broader mission to foster understanding and awareness of autism.
We came to the Karongi area because we are conducting an awareness campaign about autism. This is our second time here, and we brought artistic painting activities done by the children we care for, along with local residents,”
Kamagaju explained.
They created the Cube de Lumière art to illuminate the whole world, symbolizing autism awareness. What we want to tell people is that while we may not be equal in intelligence or ability, we are all capable of doing good things. The children we brought here have created something beautiful, showing that together, we can achieve something meaningful for the entire community,”
She added.
Beyond raising awareness, the event also aimed to showcase the potential for similar initiatives in Karongi, particularly around Lake Kivu. By attracting donors, sponsors, and partners, Autism Rwanda hopes to enhance support for autism awareness and advocacy.
Looking ahead, Autism Rwanda has plans to further its impact by opening a new center in Karongi. Kamagaju expressed hope for continued government support in this endeavor.
“We ask the government to continue supporting us so that children with autism can thrive. Rwandans need to understand autism, and we must not marginalize children because they are different. We want to ensure that every child’s talent is recognized and celebrated.”
Autism Rwanda, founded in 2012 under Kamagaju’s leadership, operates out of Kigali and currently cares for 36 children aged 2 to 15 who were born with autism. The organization plays a crucial role not only in Rwanda but across Africa, raising awareness and providing essential support for children with autism.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and restricted, repetitive behaviors. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it affects approximately 1 in 160 children globally, although prevalence rates may vary significantly across different regions. Awareness and understanding of autism have grown worldwide, but challenges remain, particularly in low-resource settings where diagnostic services and specialized care are limited.
Initiatives like those led by Autism Rwanda are vital in addressing these challenges, not only by providing direct support to affected children but also by fostering a broader societal understanding of autism. By highlighting the abilities and potential of children with autism, such efforts help to combat stigma and promote inclusion on a global scale.
In recent years, there has been a significant push towards global cooperation in autism research and advocacy. Events like the one on Lake Kivu contribute to this global movement, demonstrating how local actions can have a far-reaching impact. Through creativity, innovation, and collaboration, the global community can work together to improve the lives of individuals with autism and their families.
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