Government has expressed its commitment towards improving the welfare of the vulnerable in the country through promotion of initiatives aimed at protecting and promoting their rights.
Northern Province Minister, Brian Mundubile said government aims to see that the marginalized in society have meaningful and productive lives despite their challenges.
Mr. Mundubile said this in a speech read on his behalf by Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Boniface Mbuzi during the commemoration of the International Albinism Awareness day in Kasama.
He said there is need to increase awareness and understanding of vulnerable citizens such as those with albinism in order to fight against global discrimination and stigma.
The Minister explained that government will continue to provide policy guidance and ensure that the welfare of vulnerable groups is taken care of.
He urged stakeholders and communities to reach out to the marginalized in society and ensure that no one is left behind in the national developmental agenda.
And speaking at the same function, Albino Foundation Executive Director, John Chiti expressed sadness with the increase of discrimination and stigma of people living with albinism in the province.
Mr. Chiti said there is need to put in place measures that will protect people living with albinism against discrimination and stigma.
Meanwhile, Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) Provincial Coordinator Raphael Kamfwa challenged communities to embrace people living with disabilities.
Mr. Kamfwa urged communities to be progressive by appreciating the strengths and challenges that the vulnerable face in society.
The International Albinism Awareness day was commemorated under the Theme ‘Zambia for all, leave no one behind’.
There is nothing to fear from albinism, modern science tells us this. Let us embrace our paler neighbours.