First Lady, Mutinta Hichilema, says children living with autism will remain a top priority in her efforts to ensure they have access to safe environments, specialised education and appropriate care.
Mrs Hichilema notes that children with autism and other special needs deserve a fair chance to reach their full potential.
She made the remarks in Kabwe today when she donated a Toyota Coaster minibus to the Mutinta Hichilema Autism and Special Needs Centre.
The media reports that the First Lady said the donation reflects her continued commitment to equity, care, and creating opportunities for every child to thrive.
“This bus we are donating today is more than a utility vehicle, it is a symbol of inclusion, hope, and progress. It will bridge the gap between our children’s homes and this centre, ensuring that more families have safe and reliable access to the education and care their children need and deserve,” she said.
Mrs Hichilema recalled that when she commissioned the centre in 2024, she held the conviction that every child, regardless of ability, deserves dignity, support, education and opportunity.
“Our principle will never change. These children will always remain our priority, and we will continue providing them with a safe environment where they can receive specialised education and care,” she said.
Earlier in the day, the First Lady donated K200, 000 to mothers of children with special needs.
She acknowledged the challenges faced by mothers who care for children with special needs, especially those without a stable source of income.
Mrs Hichilema explained that the donation was intended to help ease their daily burdens and urged the beneficiaries to invest the funds in income-generating activities to sustain themselves.
Central Province Minister, Mwabashike Nkulukusa, said the First Lady’s gesture demonstrates her commitment to improving the lives of differently-abled people.
Mr Nkulukusa added that the mini-bus will significantly enhance the center’s capacity to serve its beneficiaries by improving access to essential services and opportunities.
“The donation will enable them to travel to appointments, attend therapy sessions, and participate in social activities, helping them break down the barriers that often stand in their way,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Administration, Noriana Muneku, thanked the First Lady for her dedication to marginalised children.
Ms Muneku directed the Provincial Education Officer to ensure the bus is used for its intended purpose.
She also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to upgrading the school in phases, noting that paving works under phase one had already commenced.
“Phase two will include the construction of a modern dining hall, while phase three will focus on building a boarding facility,” she said.
