Faina Chinyanga, the Foundation’s administration officer said recently that the albino community struggled to lead a normal life, due to inaccessibility and non-availability of their basic needs such as sun protector creams, eye glasses and cancer treatment.
Albinism is a demanding condition which needs special care, and without government and other forms of social intervention, it is a life-long burden. The smallest package of the cream required to protect the skin, which has no pigment, is a 15 millilitre tube that costs around $35 and hardly lasts t a month.
Sun and reading glasses are not accessible despite that every albino needs them sooner or later as albinism impairs sight. Albinos are also vulnerable to different types of cancer.
Disabled albinos like every other physically challenged person struggle to access wheelchairs which would make their life easier. Non availability of the walking aids has restricted disabled albinos indoors.
According to research most members of the albino community in Zimbabwe are poorly educated as they are denied the opportunity to attend school because of their situation. But there are some who excel in their academic and professional pursuits. The late Professor John Makumbe, a skilled and respected political scientist, commentator and author, is a case in point.
Albino girls are the most affected by discrimination regarding sending the girl child to school. Their situation is worsened by the albino eyesight which deteriorates with age.
Widespread discrimination against albinos is still prevalent in Zimbabwean society – particularly in the workplace where albinos find it difficult to secure employment in both government and the private sector.
Some sectors of society are accused of regarding albinism as a curse. The Albino Foundation has a vision to establish a rehabilitation centre to provide services such as counselling, vocational and business related courses, income generating projects and other activities. But it needs funding. It helps create educational opportunities and provide basic needs for members. It draws membership from Urban and rural communities.
The Zimbabwe albino population is estimated at 15,000. Albinism is a hereditary condition which is defined by of skin pigmentation.
Post published in: News