‘E75mln Autism Centre huge relief for Eswatini’
by Chris Dlamini
“Peace, be still.”
These Bliblical words by Jesus Christ when he ordered a violent storm to calm on the Sea of Galilee. Eswatini Autism Chairperson Senzo Hlatshwayo borrowed these words from the Bible when he announced the news of a E75 million Autism Centre construction in Luhokohla, just a bit outside the city of Manzini along the Hhelehhele road.
He was making his remarks in appreciation of the E100 000 donation they received from Swazi Empowerment Limited (SEL) on Wednesday at the latter’s offices at PriceWaterHouse Coopers (PWC) inside the capital city.
Before going any further, Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental affecting social interaction, communication, learning, and behaviour, characterised by varied strengths and challenges,
intense interests, sensory differences, and repetitive actions, with its spectrum nature meaning unique experiences for each individual, though often identified in early childhood through developmental screening.
“When we started our dream to form this organisation over 10 years ago, it was difficult as the country didn’t understand it, and it was linked with witchcraft.
We had a lot of explaining to do. So, we thank companies like SEL who supported the course with passion and understanding.
“We can’t forget to express our sincere gratitude to our Patron Inkhosikati LaMatsebula as she brings exceptional leadership,” he said.
Hlatshwayo then revealed that due to their growth over the years, the country was set to benefit holistically through a centre specialising in Autism.
“We’re building an E75 million worth Autism Centre at Luhokohla in Manzini. Construction phase 1 is already underway, and that’s worth E5 million as we have decided to do it in phases. It’s a big project,” explained Hlatshwayo.
He said the centre will have trained experts, hostel ans education, sporting and specialised clinic facilities to allow life to continue and get better for those with the condition, which is not an illnesses and can be outgrown if discovered at a tender age.
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction, communication,
learning, and behaviour, characterised by varied strengths and challenges, intense interests, sensory differences, and repetitive actions,
with its spectrum nature meaning unique experiences for each individual, though often identified in early childhood through developmental screening.