The ManicaPost
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
AUTISM spectrum disorder (ASD) knows no boundaries as it transcends continents, cultures and socio-economic backgrounds.
In Zimbabwe, its prevalence is on the rise, and communities still need to be conscientised about it. Mothers of children diagnosed with the particular condition are navigating their unique paths, united by love, challenges and determination.
Many still find autism mysterious, do not understand it, and associate it with superstition.
Autism advocate, founder and director of Glenise Organisation for Children with Autism and Disabilities, Mrs Nkosazana Muchenje said recent studies show the prevalence of autism is around one in every 100 children (1:100) in the country.
“However, it is important to keep in mind that the statistics may be reported and cases on the ground could much higher. There is lack of data, and awareness about autism in the country. There are some health facilities that cater for the needs of people with autism, but resources available to them are limited. Many families struggle to access the care and support they need for their loved ones with autism,” she said.
The Centre for Diseases Control states that the prevalence for autism in Zimbabwe is 84.50 per 10 000 children, with around one percent of the world’s population inflicted with autism spectrum disorder.
That is more than 75 million people.
Mrs Muchenje said autism is mistaken for a mental illness or a form of intellectual disability.
“Autism is a developmental disorder, and people with it have a wider range of intellectual abilities. Another common misconception is that those with it are unemotional or lack empathy. In reality, they experience emotions and empathy, but may express them differently,” she said.
Mothers with children diagnosed with autism have redefined motherhood and have been termed warriors, educators, and advocates for their children.
Their stories transcend borders, and in the tapestry of autism, every thread matters.
Ms Nokutenda Muneta (36) was christened as a warrior in Honde Valley, as she takes care of her eight-year-old son with autism.
When her son was diagnosed with autism, Ms Muneta’s world shifted.
She had never heard of autism before, but when she realised that it was a medical condition, and not witchcraft, a heavy burden was lifted from her shoulders.
Fingers had been pointed at a family member, accusing them of bewitching the young boy.
“I was really grateful to know what exactly my son was suffering from, and that I could get medical help. We consulted countless traditional healers who claimed that the child was bewitched by different family members during my pregnancy. When my son was eventually diagnosed with autism, I vowed to learn everything I could pertaining to the diagnosis so that I could help him.
He was five-years-old then, and it has been three years since his father and I have known,” she said.
Resources are scarce at health centres so she has to travel to Hauna Hospital for specialised treatment for her son.
Mrs Muchenje said autism spectrum disorder is evident during the early months after birth.
The children lack eye contact and bonding with their mother.
They often exude language, speech or hearing impairments.
Fine motor issues, problems with social interaction and impaired thinking skills can affect them too.
Ms Muneta’s child has speech and hearing impairment.
She has not sent him to school yet.
“There are no specialised schools or therapists nearby in Honde Valley, so I have not admitted my son into any school. However, some relatives have promised that they will have him admitted at Elim Primary School’s boarding section next year. They are currently raising the money,” she said.
Another mother, Ms Stella Nyatoti of Chipinge, whose son (13) was diagnosed with the ailment said: “We had to move to Chipinge because the noise, overcrowding, and lights overwhelmed my son in Harare. We do not have many health facilities that cater for his needs in Chipinge, but we often drive to Mutare for therapy sessions and specialised treatments.”
While there has been an improvement on her son’s conditions, the fear of the unknown often blights her.
Her worry is that her son might not find work as the world does not cater for people with autism, given that 75 percent of autistic adults are not employed according to the World Population Review.
Both Ms Nyatoti and Ms Muneta celebrated their children’s uniqueness on April 2 — the World Autism Awareness Day — cherishing the milestones they have travelled over the years.
Mrs Muchenje said families are an important part of the treatment process for autistics. Their involvement in the process is crucial.
“We recommend providing resources and education to families, including information about autism and strategies for supporting their loved ones. Families can also benefit from counselling and support groups that can help them cope with the challenges of caring for autistics.
“Additionally, it is important to provide families with resources for self-care, as it can be difficult to juggle all of the responsibilities of caring for a child with autism,” she said.
To commemorate the World Awareness Day, Glenis Centre will today conduct a walkathon in Harare to raise awareness within the Zimbabwean community about the condition.
Another walk will be held in Mutare later in the month to create platforms that educate communities about autism, dispel myths and misconceptions about it and inform them of the resources and support available to them.
The walkathons are a way to show support for families and individuals with autism, and demonstrate that the community cares about them.
The walk also offers an opportunity to raise funds for organisations supporting autism in the country.
