DAR ES SALAAM: MINISTER of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Youth, Labour and People with Disabilities), Mr Ridhiwani Kikwete, has called on the community to ensure the inclusion of people with albinism in various social sectors to foster national development.
He made the appeal over the weekend while leading a charity walk in Dar es Salaam aimed at raising awareness about people with albinism and collecting funds to support them.
“It is essential to recognise that people with albinism are an integral part of our community. They are not different from us in terms of dignity, rights and the ability to contribute to society. Their participation in social and economic activities is a key driver of national development. They deserve equal access to education, healthcare, employment and other opportunities,” he said.
Mr Kikwete stressed that integrating people with albinism into society is crucial for the country’s progress and called on the community to engage fully in this effort to foster national growth.
He also urged the community to actively combat stigma and discrimination against people with albinism. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that people with albinism are not left behind, particularly in economic and social sectors.
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He highlighted the government’s dedication to addressing challenges faced by people with albinism, including exposure to harmful UV rays that cause skin diseases, the lack of dermatology clinics, the high cost of skin cancer treatment, stigma, violence and human rights violations.
He pointed out several government initiatives, such as improving healthcare services by constructing disability-friendly health facilities and establishing skin cancer screening centres in hospitals nationwide.
Economic empowerment efforts include allocating 10 per cent of municipal loans to support people with disabilities.
Furthermore, he commended Lions Club International for organising the event and called on both public and private sectors to initiate sustainable projects to support people with disabilities.
“We recognise Lions Club’s contributions in assisting various groups through social services. This charity walk has provided an opportunity to raise awareness and bring people together to address the challenges we face. Public and private institutions should emulate this example,” he said.
Mr Kikwete also revealed that the government had completed the National Action Plan for the Rights and Welfare of People with Albinism and the National Assistive Technology Strategy for People with Disabilities, both of which are set to be launched on December 3, in honour of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
On his part, Lions Club International District Governor, Mr Habil Khanbhai, emphasised the collective responsibility of society in addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
He reaffirmed their commitment to raising awareness and eliminating misconceptions about people with albinism to build a more inclusive society.
Additionally, Tanzania Albinism Society Chairperson, Mr Godson Mollel, noted that such events are vital in raising awareness and encouraging other stakeholders to collaborate in solving the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
