Secretary for Health Dr. Samson Mndolo has apologised to parents of children with autism over a Chichewa translation of the condition.
In a Chichewa press statement of April 2 2025 in regards to this year’s World Autism Day, Principal Secretary (PS) translated autism in vernacular as kuzelezeka kwa bongo which appalled some parents whose children have the condition.
As defined by the National Institute of Mental Health, autism is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn and behave.
But dismayed with the Chichewa translation, a parent with an autistic child, Manyanani Mwakibinga, demanded an apology, describing the sentiments as offensive.
Writing on her Facebook page, she said: “As a parent who has a child with autism, I feel offended and you have offended my child as well as other parents whose children have the condition. My child was just born different and unique. I wait for your apology.”
In his apology dated April 4 2025 we have seen, Mndolo said the translated version was never meant to demean or offend anybody.
He said: “We acknowledge with humility that the phrase, as it appeared in the press release, was deeply inappropriate and carries connotations that are painful and stigmatizing, especially for families and individuals who live with autism. We are particularly mindful of the hurt this caused you as a parent and advocate. For that, we are truly sorry.
“It is important for us to state that this wording was not chosen with any intent to demean or belittle. As part of our internal process, the translation was subjected to a round of consultations. However, we now recognise that even well-intentioned efforts can fall short if they are not fully informed by the lived experiences of the very people we aim to serve.”
Mndolo said the translation of autism as kuzezeleka in vernacular, which is often associated with mental instability, was a grievous misstep when applied to a neurodevelopmental condition and not judgement.
He, therefore, expressed regrets that the translation was used to convey meanings far removed from the clinical and human reality of autism.
“In addition, we recognise the urgent need for deeper public awareness and education around autism in Malawi—awareness that promotes inclusion, compassion and scientific understanding rather than stigma,” he said.
In reaction to the apology, Mwakibinga said it was worth noting that Mdnolo’s apology reflected and acknowledged the impact of the choice of words regarding autism.
She said: “On behalf of my fellow parents and the autism community, we sincerely acknowledge and accept your apology.
“Autism is a deeply and personal and often misunderstood topic, and it means a lot that you have taken time to recognise that. We all continue to learn and grow, and your message shows a genuine effort to understand and do better, MEC which I fully respect.”
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that while one in 100 children globally has autism, characteristics may be detected in early childhood, but often not diagnosed until much later.
It said autism constitutes a wide group of conditions related to the brain and that abilities and needs of autistic people vary and can evolve over time. While others have severe disabilities and require life-long care and support, some are able to live independently.
“Evidence-based psychosocial interventions can improve communication and social skills, with a positive impact on the well-being and quality of life of both autistic people and their caregivers. Care for people with autism needs to be accompanied by actions at community and societal levels for greater accessibility, inclusivity and support,” states WHO.
