By ALICE NACHILEMBE
Albinism for Change in Africa Initiative president Lumangi Masoka says people with albinism face multiple forms of discrimination from society.
Mr Masoka said that albinism is still misunderstood socially, medically and culturally, thereby a challenge because society has got its own view.
He said in some parts of Africa people living with albinism continue to live in fear owing to attacks, killing and social prejudices
Mr Masoka said Albinos not only face the discrimination but also the climate challenges as most of them comes from impoverished families.
He said albinos have potential in the society as the only difference is they skin condition.
“The greatest disability is a man without a vison hence, the greatest empowerment that we can be given is knowledge and support not money.
The organisations is trying to help the Albino society in advocating that everyone have access to sunscreen, provide eye collection and sensitize to people,” he said.
Speaking at the same occasion Chingola Social Welfare Officer Peninnah Chomba said there is need to recognize the efforts of men and women working to ensure the safety of people living with albinism.
Ms Chomba has urged others to be part of creating the awareness in communities to stand firm in condemning all forms of violence, abuse and discrimination against albinism.
And Chingola Mayor Titus Tembo admitted that people living with albinism in Africa are living in object poverty and fear of being abducted or killed.
Mr Tembo said sadly there are also faced with discrimination in their social and economic wellbeing.
“We all have a legal and moral obligation to stand up for the rights of the people with albinism,” he said.
He pledged to help the initiative as the campaign to protect people with albinism must carry on to witness zero attacks and any form of violence against them.
