Mbabane – Inkhosikati Make LaMatsebula, patron of Autism Eswatini, has called on the nation, the business community and development partners to help raise 10% of the total cost needed to construct a dedicated autism centre in the Kingdom, warning that stigma and hostility towards people with autism remain deeply concerning.
The appeal was made during the 2026 Autism Challenge Hiking Event held at Tfutjane Mount Resort in Mkhondvo KaKholwane on Monday, organised to mark World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness Month.
The autism centre project is already in its first phase and has been largely funded by the government through the Regional Development Fund. Inkhosikati LaMatsebula described the project as far more than a building. “This project represents more than infrastructure. It is the foundation of a sanctuary, a centre of excellence that will provide care, support, education, and dignity,” she said. 
She directed a specific appeal to the private sector and development partners to help close the funding gap. “I therefore make a humble but urgent appeal to the private sector, our partners, and friends of the Kingdom: please help us bridge this gap. Your contribution is not merely a donation, but it is an investment in human potential. It marks a legacy that will transform lives for generations to come,” she said.
The Inkhosikati rejected the notion that autism should be viewed as a burden or a tragedy. “Autism is not a tragedy to be ignored; it is a different way of experiencing the world, one that requires our respect, compassion, and deliberate action,” she said.
She also spoke frankly about the challenges that remain despite progress made through collaboration between government, civil society and development partners. “We continue to see cases of stigma, misunderstanding, and, most concerningly, hostility towards children and individuals with autism, sometimes within their own homes,” she said, adding that such treatment would not be tolerated. “This is unacceptable. Let it be clear: the dignity and rights of persons with autism are protected, and any violation will not be tolerated. As a nation, we must stand firm in defending the most vulnerable among us.”
She called for more strategic and sustained action. “We need to intensify our efforts and be strategic in pulling the required resources for creating sustainable systems that will strengthen support for all persons with autism in Eswatini. Together, we can make this possible,” she said.
Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula, who represented Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla at the event, supported the Inkhosikati’s call and revealed findings from the first autism survey conducted in the Lubombo region, which showed that one in six emaSwati, accounting for 16.7% of the population, have autism.
The 4km hiking challenge that formed the centrepiece of the day’s activities was designed to promote understanding, acceptance and solidarity with individuals and families affected by autism across the Kingdom.
