Moses Makwaya
People living with albinism in Zambia 🇿🇲 will get free sunscreens through the Ministry of Health.
The Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Doreen Mwamba said her ministry is keen to ensure that those living with albinism are well taken care of. Ms Mwamba said this while Canadian businessman and philanthropist, Peter Ash, and Albinism Foundation of Zambia(AFZ) members paid a courtesy call at her office.
The Minister emphasized Government’s efforts in prioritising the welfare of people with albinism by taking various steps, such discouraging discrimination and also providing social security, while demystifying traditional and cultural perceptions.
“Government realizes the challenges that people with albinism face such as social and economic insecurities which has resulted in more measures to empower them put in place,” Ms Mwamba said.
She added that currently over 20 cases of attacks on people living with albinism have been recorded. However, the minister gave assurance to curb this vice.
Mr Ash identified public education as a key area that needs attention in the Southern African country given the history of misconception regarding albinism among it’s citizens.
The business man pledged to work with stakeholders in the country to educate the public
“It [the sensitisation] will help stop killings and other harmful practices against people living with albinism.
Albinism Foundation of Zambia representative John Chiti, appreciated Government’s move. Mr Chiti, also a member of the Zambia Police Service Commission appreciated the Ministry’s efforts in uplifting the welfare of persons with disabilities.
He pledged to work together with all stakeholders in changing the narrative about people living with albinism in particular.
