Zim Joins The Whole World In Commemorating Autism Day

On Tuesday 02 April, Zimbabwe joined the rest of the world in commemorating the World Autism Day. The Chronicle reports that The Ministry of Health and Child Care called for the public to ensure they fight stigma, discrimination and human rights violations associated with the disorder.

The Ministry in a statement on Tuesday said:

Today is World Autism Awareness Day, a day commemorated in support of people living with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This year’s theme is ‘Assistive Technologies Active Participation’ and members of the public should remember autism is a developmental difference, not a disability.

The Ministry also said they may demonstrate repetitive or restrictive behaviour in their daily activities.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects the brain functions of an individual. The affected person often finds social interaction to be difficult or near impossible.

The condition is often misunderstood. Some often label children with ASD less smart which may affect the performance of those for good. However, ASD can be managed. Dwayne, the retired wrestler, known as The Rock, is one testimony.

The Rock is on record saying those with the disorder can still be successful like himself. The Rock said:

It’s important to know that you are never alone in this community. Everyone is going to go through struggles but no matter the obstacle, whether it be having difficulty with autism, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, dyslexia, you name it, you have a village out there to help support you.

Related:

• Video: Trailer of “Beautiful” – Documentary On Autism By Hopewell Chin’ono

• ‘Parents Hiding Disabled Children Due To Stigma’ – Mary Mliswa

More: The Chronicle