Victorious Centre of Excellence celebrates Mandela's legacy, empowering children with Autism in Tanzania
Former Prime Minister, Mr. Frederick Sumaye (second from left), addressing the gathering of ambassadors from various nations in Tanzania and directors of organizations during the International . Also present are the founders and directors of the Victorious Centre of Excellence, Mr. Filbert Sumaye (left) and Ms. Sarah Laiser-Sumaye (second from right), along with Reverend Dr. Eliona Kimaro (right). PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The center offers various rehabilitation therapy services and additional activities for children with Autism in Tanzania, with the aim of integrating them into society through concerted efforts to enhance social understanding.
Dar es Salaam. The Victorious Centre of Excellence in Tanzania has reiterated its dedication to leading the charge to support children with Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in the country and raise awareness about their unique needs.
The centre’s commitment was on full display during the recent International Nelson Mandela Day celebrations.
The event held in Dar es Salaam was organized by the United Nations and the South African High Commission in collaboration with the Victorious Centre of Excellence.
It brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to honor Mandela's legacy of service and human rights.
Participants engaged in meaningful activities, such as tree planting, painting, and assisting in kitchen tasks at the center, all in the spirit of improving the lives of children with special needs.
Speaking at the event, CEO of the Victorious Centre of Excellence Ms. Sarah Laiser-Sumaye highlighted that the rising trend of autism cases in Tanzania and across Africa is a pressing concern, with recent research from the USA's CDC revealing a startling 1 in 36 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
"In Tanzania and Africa, the situation is even more daunting, as children affected by autism often encounter hurdles in communication, lack speech, face barriers in education, and exhibit hyperactive and aggressive behaviors,"
"These challenges are further exacerbated by the lack of awareness and cultural beliefs surrounding Autism in the region,” she explained.
However, she highlighted that Victorious Centre of Excellence and Victorious Academy have emerged as beacons of hope and support for children with Autism and their families.
Through their therapy and special needs education, the centers are making a meaningful difference in the lives of the children and their families.
The center offers various rehabilitation therapy services and additional activities for children with Autism in Tanzania, with the aim of integrating them into society through concerted efforts to enhance social understanding.
To demonstrate the importance of the cause, the event was graced by key stakeholders from various institutions, including Former Prime Minister of Tanzania, Frederick Sumaye, the High Commissioner of South Africa in Tanzania, Noluthando Mayende- Malepe and Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office - Ms. Shabnam Mallick.
Others include, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Liberata Mulamula, Ambassador of the Union of Comoros and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Dr. Ahamada El Badaoui Mohamed Fakih together with a number of Ambassadors from different countries including Congo, Algeria, Mozambique and other representatives from various diplomatic missions.
Ambassador Mayende-Malepe, speaking at the event, recognized the importance of the Victorious Centre's work and emphasized the need to partner with institutions like the centre to raise awareness and expand the reach of Mandela's values, including the fight against injustice and helping people in need.
“Nelson Mandela International Day is an opportunity for citizens around the world to recognise their individual power to change the world for the better. Through working with institutions such as the Victorious Centre for Excellence, we realise that we can also play a part by raising awareness and expanding the reach of Mandela’s values including the fight against injustice and helping people in need.’’ said Ambassador Mayende-Malepe.
The United Nations also expressed its appreciation for the efforts of the Victorious Centre of Excellence while acknowledging the importance of Nelson Mandela's leadership and the significance of promoting his values and inspiring people to make positive contributions to society.
"Every action counts, even if it is small. Whether it is painting a wall or assisting with meal preparation, our contributions today are part of a larger global effort to fight poverty and inequality. These acts of service, even if small, have a positive ripple effect that extends beyond their immediate impact." stated Ms. Shabnam Mallick, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator's Office in Tanzania.
This action by the stakeholders came as the Victorious Centre of Excellence continues to establish itself as an important partner not only in providing its services, but also in empowering the community, promoting awareness, and fostering a responsible society.
Through its sustainable efforts, the center not only transforms the lives of children with autism, but also encourages others to follow in the footsteps of the late Nelson Mandela, embracing the concept of 'Ubuntu' (humanity) and fulfilling their duty towards a better future for all.
