Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande
Mashonaland Central Bureau
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has donated a consignment of sun protection materials to the Zimbabwe Albino Association (ZIMAS) in a gesture aimed at enhancing the health, safety and dignity of people with albinism.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in Mt Darwin, ZERA chief executive Mr Eddington Mazambani said the donation resulted from collective goodwill, corporate citizenship and fundraising efforts held throughout the year.
Funds used to procure the sunscreen and protective clothing were raised through charity golf tournaments hosted in Bulawayo and Harare.
Mr Mazambani announced that the tournaments generated US$16 235 and ZiG$48 006.86, highlighting the compassion and commitment of participating organisations, sponsors and individual contributors.
“While our core mandate is to regulate the energy sector for safety and sustainability, our broader vision extends to human development and social equity,” he said.
“A responsible public institution must invest in the well-being of the communities it serves, especially vulnerable groups.”
Mr Mazambani recognised the critical challenges faced by people with albinism, particularly their heightened vulnerability to the sun, which can lead to severe skin damage and even cancer.
“The provision of sunscreen and protective clothing is not just charity; it enables those with albinism to pursue education, employment and social participation with dignity and safety,” he said.
Mr Mazambani added that empowering individuals with albinism aligns with national development goals, stressing that no Zimbabwean should be left behind.
He expressed confidence that the Zimbabwe Albino Association would ensure the materials reach those most in need and reaffirmed ZERA’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Association.
Provincial head of the Department of Social Development, Mr Godwin Bongwe, acknowledged the daily challenges faced by persons with albinism, including painful sunburns and heightened risks of skin complications.
He described access to sun protection as a necessity rather than a luxury.
The donated materials symbolise safety, care and a commitment to ensuring that people with albinism are seen, valued and loved.
“We commend ZIMAS for its tireless advocacy and community-driven efforts to improve the lives of individuals with albinism across the country,” said Mr Bongwe.
A community representative, Ms Bridget Maposa, expressed gratitude for the sunscreens, noting that they are often too expensive for many people with albinism to afford.
