By Nyasha Dube
A sense of collective action and empowerment yesterday filled the air in the mining town of Zvishavane,at the belated commemorations of International Albinism Awareness Day.
Hosted by For 4 Girls Focus Trust, with support from the Zimbabwe Albino Association (Zimas), the event proved to be a beacon of hope and a call to action towards addressing the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals with albinism and their caregivers.
For 4 Girls Focus Trust, based in Zvishavane, advocates for the rights of persons with albinism, and has collaborated with various individuals and organizations in distributing sunscreen lotions, protective clothing as well as social and emotional support to the albinism community in the mining town and surrounding environs.
In attendance were persons with albinism from surrounding communities, parents of children with albinism, representatives from government ministries, traditional leaders, civil society organization partners, and members of the community, all of whom united in pledging their mission to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build a more inclusive society.
According to the Noble Hands Zimbabwe Trust, 83% of persons live in rural areas where they face various socio-cultural and economic challenges leading to their discrimination and exclusion.
Speaking at the commemorations, one of the beneficiaries of For 4 Girls Focus Trust Yolanda Moyo, a radiant model with albinism hailed the organization for empowering the often excluded community. Her presence commanded attention, her confidence a testament to her journey of self-acceptance.
“For 4 Girls Focus Trust believed in me when others doubted. They saw my potential and supported me every step of the way,” Yolanda said with a sense of fulfillment as she shared her story of triumph in the world of modeling.
For 4 Girls Focus Trust Director Dourt Majoni, expressed concerns about the continuous stigmatization and lack of consideration towards people with albinism in public spaces and institutions.
“People with albinism should be supported to become leaders, even traditional leaders. They should be encouraged to aim for bigger careers, to dream without limits,” said Majoni, her voice echoing with passion, as she called for a society that embraces diversity and nurtures the potential of every individual.
Zimbabwe Albino Association Project Assistant Memory Munyoro shared the same sentiments emphasizing the need for intensive advocacy and support.
“Government departments must work hand in hand with children and parents of children with albinism. Their voices must be heard, their needs must be met,” she said.
Representatives from government ministries put out a call to action to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring inclusivity and support for persons with albinism especially at education and health facilities.
Persons with albinism in Zimbabwe often struggle to access medical services for various reasons like discrimination, despite their vulnerability to skin cancer.
In that context, Zvishavane District Health Promotion Officer Rumbidzai Chikwana pledged to mainstream albinism awareness in the hospital’s health awareness campaigns.
“The stigma faced by children born with albinism in health institutions is a harsh reality. We will spread awareness, educate, and advocate for their rights,” she said, promising to stand alongside those who face discrimination and prejudice.
Panashe Tazvitya, a young woman with albinism and an advocate with a passion for education, delivered an insightful presentation on skin issues related to albinism, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by individuals with this condition.
Kudakwashe Machiha from Zimas also addressed the pervasive discrimination and stigma that continue to plague the lives of people with albinism.
A representative from the District Development Cordinator’s office Chinhara who was also a keynote speaker pledged a commitment to support and uplift individuals with albinism.
“Persons with albinism are the apple of God’s eye and they are super talented. Some of them have grown to become big people, for example, Radio Zimbabwe presenter Ndundu who is the best presenter at the radio station. We must recognize their potential, nurture their talents, and create a society that values diversity and inclusion,” he said.
Children with albinism also received sunscreen lotions, lip balms, and protective clothing from Chief Masunda and other partners.
The belated commemorations of International Albinism Awareness Day in Zvishavane sparked a movement, a journey of empowerment and inclusion. With each voice raised in solidarity, each hand extended in support, the path towards a more accepting and understanding society became clearer.