Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
Scores of people living with albinism in Masvingo Province benefited from a health and empowerment outreach programme organised by Albinism in Action for Economic Development (Albinism-In-Action4ED) last Saturday, as the organisation intensified efforts to promote inclusion, dignity and access to essential healthcare support.
The programme, led by the organisation’s national chairperson, Cde Gerald Mhandu, began with an interface meeting at Masvingo Polytechnic where persons with albinism engaged with the leadership on issues affecting their welfare, health and education.
Participants received guidance on proper skin care practices and the correct use of sunscreen lotions, which are critical in protecting people living with albinism from harmful ultraviolet radiation and skin-related complications.
Addressing participants during the meeting, Cde Mhandu said the initiative was aimed at ensuring that people living with albinism are not left behind in national development programmes.
“We are here to promote dignity, equality and inclusion for persons living with albinism. Access to sunscreen lotions and health information is not a privilege, but a necessity that protects lives and improves wellbeing,” he said.
“We also want communities to understand that people living with albinism deserve equal opportunities in education, employment and leadership. Our vision is to build a society where no one is discriminated against because of their condition.”
The outreach programme was attended by representatives from the Masvingo ZANU-PF provincial leadership, including commissariat department official Cde Maveza, who welcomed the delegation and commended the organisation for advancing community-based empowerment initiatives.
“This programme reflects the spirit of inclusivity and community development that should define our society. Supporting vulnerable groups is everyone’s responsibility,” said Cde Maveza.
Following the interface meeting, the delegation proceeded to M Hugo School of the Blind in Masvingo, where they met more than 80 learners living with albinism.
The visit turned into an emotional and celebratory occasion as the children sang, interacted and shared experiences with the visiting team.
The organisation distributed sunscreen lotions to all the learners as part of efforts to safeguard their health and improve their quality of life.
Some of the learners also raised concerns related to poor eyesight and examination conditions, appealing for additional support, including access to spectacles and extra time during examinations.
Cde Mhandu said there was need for stakeholders, including examination bodies and education authorities, to consider the special learning needs of children living with albinism.
“Education must be inclusive and responsive to the realities faced by these learners. Some require visual aids, while others need additional time during examinations because of sight challenges. No child should be disadvantaged because of a condition they were born with,” he said.
Albinism-In-Action4ED has in recent months rolled out similar outreach and empowerment programmes in several parts of the country, including Mashonaland Central and Masvingo, with a focus on health support, awareness campaigns and advocacy against discrimination.
Peter Tanyanyiwa