In commemoration of Albinism Awareness Month this September, Albinism Society of South Africa (ASSA) Ekurhuleni held its annual awareness campaign on September 10 at the Victor Ndlazilwana Hall.
Hailing from areas such as Thembisa, Vosloorus, Tsakane and Watville, over 50 children and adults living with albinism attended the event.
Speakers called for equality and respect for people living with albinism.
One of the speakers, Daveyton SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Constance Moalusi, urged people to work together with the police to combat issues affecting people with albinism.
Another speaker, Connie Phaswane, advised attendees to guard their mental state amid social ills.
Daveyton ASSA representative Shoki Kekana said the aim of the event was to raise awareness about the condition as well to discuss some of the issues faced by people living with albinism.
“The event was also held in line with the market, which saw a variety of goods on sale at the different stalls owned by people living with albinism.
“We wanted to show people that albinos are intelligent and have entrepreneurial skills. They shouldn’t be defined by their skin colour,” said Kekana.
Activist and the founder of the Albinism Society of South Africa Nomasonto Mazibuko was honoured for her role she played in advocating against the killing of people with albinism and dispelling the myths.
A support group to assist parents to care for their children who are living with albinism is held every second week of every month at St Johns Anglican Church in Putfontein.
To attend these meetings, you may contact Kekana on 071 504 9447 or Mpho Chiloane on 064 169 5003.
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