Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo
20 April 202
Zimeleni disability association hosted autism awareness on Friday, 17 April 2026, at Embalenhle Sasol Club.
The event aimed to promote awareness, inclusion, and support for autistic individuals and people with disabilities in the community of eMbalenhle.
The initiative also sought to play an important role in educating communities, reducing stigma, and encouraging inclusion for individuals on the spectrum.
Mmakosha Makaila, Mpumalanga regional development officer, led a lesson on the road map to diagnosis.
“A diagnosis of autism should not be seen as the end of the world. If your child has been diagnosed, that child is still yours; autism has not changed that.
However, now that you know, you can look out for supportive strategies to support you and the child.
If you suspect your child is autistic, ask your health care provider for a referral to a neurodevelopmental clinic, said Mmakosha
She further engaged with parents of autistic children on where to go for therapy, sensory differences, deregulated behaviour and the need for routine and order, which she says helps autistic people thrive.
Parents and guardians of children living with autism raised challenges they face daily, including getting their children admitted to a school.
Furthermore, the parents flagged a challenge with transport, as many families are struggling to access reliable transport and allege that transport drivers do not treat Leaners with special needs with care; therefore, they demand that the Mpumalanga Department of Education provide transport for special school learners.
The link below is a petition calling on the MEC of Education in Mpumalanga to provide transport for special school learners, as many families struggle to access reliable transport.
