Renaissance Africa Energy donates sensory room to support children with autism

To mark World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, 2025, Renaissance Africa Energy Company, an energy consortium dedicated to sustainable industrialisation and social impact, has donated a state-of-the-art sensory room to The Child Foundation in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The sensory room is designed to support cognitive development, social interaction, and emotional regulation for children with autism. It features soft walls, dynamic lighting, tactile panels, and calming visual projections—carefully curated elements that help children manage sensory input and enhance their learning experience in a secure and comforting environment.

“Autism remains widely misunderstood in Nigeria and across Africa, often resulting in stigma and inadequate support,” said Igo Weli, General Manager of External Relations at Renaissance Africa Energy Company.

“This experience was profoundly humbling and a reminder of the importance of listening with intention and acting with compassion. At Renaissance Africa Energy, we are committed to showing up where it matters most. This initiative reflects our dedication to learning, understanding, and making a meaningful impact.”

The project was delivered by The Offshore Lab, a service-oriented organisation known for its expertise in project execution, consulting, and capacity development. Leveraging its deep experience in sustainable project delivery, TOL ensured the facility was developed to meet the long-term needs of the local community.

“At The Offshore Lab, we believe in using our expertise to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve,” said Emeka Obiwulu, CEO of The Offshore Lab. “This sensory room is a testament to our commitment to supporting children with special needs and ensuring access to spaces that nurture their development. We are proud to have played a role in bringing this project to life.”

The new facility at The Child Foundation will serve as a cornerstone for inclusion and early intervention. By providing a structured and interactive environment, the sensory room will help children on the autism spectrum build motor skills, regulate sensory stimuli, and engage more effectively with their surroundings.

“This sensory room is a life-changing addition for the children we support,” said Rev. Sister Victoria of The Child Foundation. “It provides a controlled, interactive space where they can develop essential sensory and motor skills in a safe and engaging environment. We are immensely grateful to Renaissance Africa Energy Company and The Offshore Lab for making this possible.”