We are a hybrid social enterprise dedicated to transforming autism support in Kenya through holistic care, digital innovation, and transparent community-driven economics.
To provide comprehensive, affordable, and high-quality autism support services through an integrated ecosystem of physical care, digital resources, and transparent financial mechanisms that empower families, professionals, and communities.
A Kenya where every autistic child has access to quality support services, where families are empowered with knowledge and resources, and where communities embrace neurodiversity as a natural and valuable part of human experience.
Founded by Paul Oloo, a father's journey of love and advocacy
Tawi Autism Foundation was born from a deeply personal journey. Paul Oloo, our founder, adopted a child with autism and quickly discovered the profound challenges facing families in Kenya seeking quality autism support. The lack of accessible services, the high costs of therapy, and the social stigma surrounding autism became painfully clear.
Rather than accepting these barriers, Paul spent a year engaging with the autism community—listening to parents, consulting with professionals, and learning from international best practices. He envisioned a solution that would address not just the immediate need for therapy, but the systemic issues of affordability, accessibility, and community support.
The result is Tawi Autism Foundation: a three-tier ecosystem that combines a physical autism center, a digital platform for connection and resources, and an innovative token economy that ensures transparency and sustainability. "Tawi" means "branch" in Swahili, symbolizing our belief that from small beginnings, we can grow a thriving network of support that reaches every corner of Kenya.
These principles guide every decision we make and every service we provide
We approach every family with empathy, understanding, and unconditional support.
We honor the inherent worth and potential of every autistic individual.
We believe in the power of collective support and shared experiences.
We embrace technology and new approaches to improve autism support.
We maintain open communication and accountability in all our operations.
We strive for the highest quality in every service we provide.
Kenya has very few specialized autism centers, particularly outside major cities. Families in coastal regions like Mombasa have limited options for comprehensive, evidence-based interventions.
Private therapy sessions can cost KES 40,000-80,000 per month, placing quality care out of reach for most families. There are few subsidized or affordable alternatives.
There is a critical shortage of trained autism professionals in Kenya. Many therapists and educators lack specialized training in evidence-based autism interventions.
Families often face stigma and misunderstanding from their communities. Parents struggle to find peer support and feel isolated in their journey.