The African Street Journal Namibia
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Namibia hosts world autism congress

Windhoek will gather international experts and advocates from November 3-5 to discuss autism support.

Namibia will host the sixth World Autism Organisation Congress in Windhoek from November 3 to 5, 2026. The event will bring together international speakers, researchers, and autism advocates to discuss better support for people with autism. Organisers state the congress occurs as Namibia's autistic community remains underserved.

Autism Association of Namibia founder Petra Dillmann stated the congress offers a platform for the autistic community to advocate for themselves. She explained that the event will allow participants to learn directly from autistic individuals about their needs and experiences. The congress aims to unite parents, educators, health professionals, academics, employers, government representatives, and people with autism.

Discussions will cover daily life support, early intervention, education, employment, rights, advocacy, ageing, and sensory processing. Professional development opportunities will be available for psychologists, therapists, medical practitioners, teachers, and researchers. Registration for in-person and virtual attendance is open via the congress website.

Why it mattersThe congress in Windhoek aims to improve support for Namibia's underserved autistic community by bringing together various stakeholders and international expertise.