By ANNIE ZULU
GOVERNMENT says people living with albinism will get free sunscreens through the Ministry of Health.
Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Honourable Doreen Mwamba says her ministry is keen to ensure that those living with albinism are well taken care of.
Speaking this morning when she met with Canadian businessman and philanthropist, Mr Peter Ash, who was accompanied by Albinism Foundation of Zambia(AFZ) members at her office, the Minister emphasized that Government has prioritized the welfare of people with albinism by taking various steps such discouraging discrimination against them, and also providing social security, while demystifying traditional and cultural perceptions.
Mrs Mwamba said 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.
She said up to date, over 20 cases of attacks on people living with albinism have been recorded but assured that government is ensuring that such challenges are dealt with conclusively.
And Mr Ash identified public education as one key area that needed attention in Zambia, as there were a lot of misconception regarding albinism.
He pledged to work with stakeholders in the country in sensitizing the public, saying it will help stop killings and other harmful practices against people living with albinism.
The meeting also tackled the need to have an action plan on people living with albinism in order to create a legal framework on matters affecting them.
Meanwhile, Albinism Foundation of Zambia representative, Mr John Chiti, who is also member of the Zambia Police Service Commission appreciated the Ministry’s efforts in uplifting the welfare of persons with disabilities and pledged to work hand in hand with all stakeholders in changing the narrative about people living with albinism in particular.
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