BY SIBUSISEKILE NDLANGAMANDLA
MANZINI– Autism Eswatini is set to raise funds through a golf tournament aimed at strengthening support for children with autism and their families. The tournament will be held on September 5, 2026, at Ubombo Country Club, with funds raised expected to support the organisation’s programmes and the construction of the Autism Centre at Luhlokohla, which is already underway.
Autism Eswatini Executive Director Tryphina Mvubu highlighted the challenges faced by families raising children with autism during an interview on the Kusile Breakfast Show. Mvubu identified the shortage of therapists in Eswatini as one of the major barriers, saying limited access to professional support can make it difficult for children with autism to receive the assistance they need in their learning and development.
She said learning difficulties were among the challenges experienced by some children with autism, making support from both families and schools important in helping them reach their full potential. Mvubu pointed to developments in the education sector as a positive step towards creating a more inclusive learning environment. The Ministry of Education and Training introduced a programme in 2020 to train teachers on how to support and work with children with autism.
“This programme has helped strengthen teachers’ understanding of autism and equipped them with skills to better support learners on the autism spectrum” said Mvubu. She said Autism Eswatini had also started construction of a dedicated centre at Luhlokohla, which is expected to expand access to services and support for children with autism and their families.
Mvubu said fundraising remains critical to sustaining Autism Eswatini’s programmes and supporting the construction of the centre at Luhlokohla. She said the upcoming golf tournament will provide an opportunity for individuals, businesses and organisations to contribute towards expanding support for children with autism.
She added that this year’s tournament will also allow participating companies and organisations to wear their own branding, giving them an opportunity to showcase their businesses while supporting the autism cause. The golf tournament is expected to attract golfers, businesses and other stakeholders, with funds raised going towards Autism Eswatini’s programmes and the development of the centre.
(Courtesy Pic)
