By Tavonga Munyanyi
In a meaningful demonstration of support, the Gweru-based civil society organization Integration of People with Albinism (I.P.A) Organization recently donated sunscreen lotions to members of the albinism community in Shurugwi’s rural areas.
The handover ceremony took place on Monday October 06 at Chachacha Business Centre in Ward 10, Shurugwi South.
The event was attended by Shurugwi Town Council Mayor Fanuel Machiya, Assistant District Development Coordinator Willard Gwerevende, District Social Development Officer Shantel Chinhengo, and Ward 10 Councillor Tarisai Murashiki.
A total of 40 bottles of sunscreen lotion were distributed to 20 individuals with albinism from the district’s rural communities.
I.P.A Organization Director James Mudoti said the group was dedicated to supporting people with albinism while also working to eliminate discrimination and social stigmatization.
“As an organization, we are focused on improving the welfare of people with albinism by providing them with appropriate necessities. They need sunhats and sunscreen lotions because they have little or no melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin, hair, and eyes. Without sunscreen, their skin is exposed to sunlight, causing sunburn that may lead to skin cancer,” said Mudoti.
He added that the organization was actively visiting schools to identify challenges faced by children with albinism, with a special focus on rural areas where families often cannot afford protective items such as sunscreen and spectacles.
“We aim to reach all districts in the Midlands Province, with an emphasis on rural communities. So far, we have reached Gokwe South and Shurugwi districts,” said Mudoti.
He also urged parents not to discriminate children born with albinism, stressing the importance of equal treatment and recognition of their potential.
“If your child was born with albinism, do not despise him or her, treat these children equally. Some parents treat children with albinism like useless objects, yet many people with albinism are excelling in the world as doctors, journalists, and lawyers,” he said.
Mudoti acknowledged the Royal Family Albinism Trust, a Zimbabwean Botswana-based company, for sponsoring the sunscreen lotions.
I.P.A, Welfare and Logistics Coordinator Chiedza Muzondo encouraged encouraged people with albinism to seek prompt medical attention if they notice any unusual skin wounds to prevent serious health complications.
“I advise you to visit the doctor immediately if you notice a small wound on your skin. Early treatment can help avoid further complications like skin cancer,” Muzondo said.
Speaking to TellZim News after the event, Shurugwi Assistant District Development Coordinator Willard Gwerevende expressed gratitude for the donation, noting its potential to improve beneficiaries’ welfare and reduce school dropouts.
“I want to thank I.P.A for stretching a helping hand to people with albinism. Many in rural areas struggle to earn a living, making it difficult to afford sunscreen. When a child with albinism has these necessities, they can attend school without hindrance,” Gwerevende said.
Ward 10 Councillor Tarisai Murashiki also voiced profound appreciation, describing the donation as a major relief for the albinism community.
“This kind gesture is a true relief. Many people in rural areas simply cannot afford to buy sunscreen lotions,” Murashiki said.
Beneficiaries expressed joy and gratitude following the donation.
“I am very happy to receive this sunscreen lotion. Normally, I buy a 250ml bottle for US$24, which only lasts three weeks,” said Amina Ali.
Edmore Kadungure, another male beneficiary, shared similar sentiments saying he was relieved since the sunscreen lotion was a necessity
“I’m very happy to receive this sunscreen lotion, living without it is very difficult and at times we fail to get it due to financial challenges,” said Kadungure.
Morelight Mapingure, a primary school leaner said the donation would make a significant difference in her life, adding that she had often been ridiculed at school because of her skin condition.
“I’m very happy to receive the sunscreen that helps protect my skin. Some children used to laugh at me because of my condition,” she said.
The Integration of People with Albinism Organization was established in 2019 and officially registered in 2021.
