Chief Mphamba of the Tumbuka people in Lundazi District of Eastern Province has reiterated the need to protect people living with albinism against harmful myths.
The traditional leader says it is my duty to ensure that people with albinism enjoy their human rights like any other person in his chiefdom.
The chief was speaking during the commemoration of Albinism Awareness Day through his representative, Wiseman Nyirongo.
“People that are living with albinism are also my subjects and they too need my protection,” Chief Mphamba stated.
Chief Mphamba said harmful myths that have turned people with albinism as targets for harmful rituals have continued to rob such people of the dignity, respect, and rights to thrive in society.
“Parents and guardians for children with albinism have resorted to keeping them away from the public for fear of being targeted by ritualists,” the chief observed.
He has pledged protection of people with albinism and improved community awareness on their rights.
The traditional leader has since appealed to parents and guardians to allow children to attend school and access other social services available to everyone.
And an 84- year -old woman with albinism in Lundazi’s Chijemu area is living in fear after an unknown person broke into her house recently.
Tamandenji Mumba told media that she was only rescued by alert neighbours who heard her desperate call for help after an intruder entered the house through the window.
“People must allow me to die a natural death because I am already advanced in age,”Ms Mumba said.
She said neighbours are now sharing nights with her in her house following the unfortunate incident.
