Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Youth, Labour, and People with Disabilities), Ridhiwani Kikwete, has called for the active inclusion of people with albinism in all sectors of society to drive national development. He made these remarks over the weekend during a charity walk in Dar es Salaam aimed at raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with albinism and collecting funds to support them.
“It is crucial to acknowledge that people with albinism are integral members of our community. They share the same dignity, rights, and abilities to contribute to society. Their full participation in social and economic activities is vital for our country’s progress,” Mr. Kikwete stated. He underscored the need for equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and other opportunities, emphasizing that breaking barriers for people with albinism is essential to fostering a more inclusive and prosperous society.
The Minister urged communities to combat stigma and discrimination, which remain significant hurdles for people with albinism. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring no one is left behind, particularly in addressing issues such as limited access to dermatology clinics, high costs of skin cancer treatments, exposure to harmful UV rays, violence, and human rights violations.
Mr. Kikwete highlighted the government’s ongoing initiatives, including the construction of disability-friendly health facilities, the establishment of skin cancer screening centers, and the allocation of 10% of municipal loans to support people with disabilities. He also announced the completion of the National Action Plan for the Rights and Welfare of People with Albinism and the National Assistive Technology Strategy for People with Disabilities, both set to be launched on December 3 in honor of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Commending Lions Club International for organizing the charity walk, Mr. Kikwete called on public and private institutions to initiate sustainable projects for people with disabilities. “This event serves as an example of how collective efforts can raise awareness and address challenges. Public and private entities should emulate such initiatives to foster inclusivity,” he added.
Lions Club International District Governor, Habil Khanbhai, also addressed the event, reiterating the societal responsibility to support people with disabilities. He stressed the importance of raising awareness and dispelling misconceptions about albinism to promote a more inclusive society.
Tanzania Albinism Society Chairperson, Godson Mollel, commended the initiative, noting the significance of collaborative efforts in tackling the challenges faced by people with albinism. He expressed hope that such events would inspire stakeholders to work together for long-term solutions to these challenges.