NetOne in albinism awareness campaign

Latwell Nyangu

NETONE say they are increasing awareness in the protection of people living with albinism.

The company said they were committed to assist vulnerable individuals, including those living with albinism.

The message comes after the organisation celebrated the belated International Albinism Awareness Day held in Bulawayo.

NetOne Group chief executive, Raphael Mushanawani, made the remarks in a speech read on his behalf by NetOne Matabeleland regional manager, Elmah Dube.

“As NetOne we are glad to join hands with Albino Charity Organisation of Zimbabwe (ALCOZ) to celebrate and commemorate International Albinism Awareness under the hashtags #United in Making Our Voice heard and #Inclusion4equility.

“As NetOne, under our Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, we have supported different vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, including those living with albinism, in communities we operate from around the country.

“NetOne, through its management, will continue to support people living with albinism and we have donated sun creams, lip balms and sun hats.

“We would like to assure the community that NetOne seeks to take this initiative to the various regions across the country as it is our mandate to ensure that we leave no place and no one behind,” he said.

He added:

“Albinism is not a curse and as such we have collaborated with ALCOZ in a partnership to create awareness, fight discrimination, stigma and marginalisation, against those living with albinism.

“Albinism is a rare condition, a genetically-inherited difference that occurs at birth, it is non-contagious and is caused by lack of pigmentation in the skin, hair and eyes causing lack of defence to sunlight and bright light.

“We celebrate all people living with albinism all over the world, on their special day, we share our opinion that people with albinism should enjoy the full privileges of all human rights and we implore other corporates and stakeholders to render their support as well.

 “We believe the journey doesn’t end here as there is more that needs to be done in ensuring that communities are educated to increase awareness that help alleviate, uphold and protect the rights of people living with albinism.”