The Zimbabwe Albino Association has praised platinum producer Zimplats for its continued support in improving the lives of people with albinism across the country, highlighting the company’s longstanding role in health and social inclusion initiatives.
Speaking recently, Kudakwashe Machiha of the Zimbabwe Albino Association said Zimplats’ assistance goes beyond their own organization, extending to at least five other groups supporting people with albinism.
“Zimplats has been assisting us with critical protective materials such as sunscreen lotions and sunhats, which we receive on a monthly basis,” said Machiha. “This support helps us take necessary precautions against the harsh sun, which is a daily challenge for people with albinism. It’s something we treasure deeply. It allows us to protect ourselves, live with dignity, and engage confidently in society.”
He stressed that such donations are not only practical but symbolic of inclusion and care, offering hope to vulnerable communities and easing the financial burden for families who often struggle to afford essential protective resources.
Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Marondera East Constituency, Vimbayi Mutokonyi, also expressed gratitude to Zimplats, noting that the company’s intervention improves the quality of life for persons with albinism.
According to the 2022 Zimbabwe Population and Housing Census, 9,747 people were recorded as living with albinism nationwide. Earlier research, including a 1996 survey of 1.3 million schoolchildren, reported a prevalence of oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) at approximately 1 in 4,728, with higher concentrations observed in urban areas such as Harare and Manicaland. Certain ethnic groups, including the Tonga tribe, were found to have even higher prevalence rates, estimated at 1 in 1,000.
Albinism, primarily OCA in Zimbabwe, results from genetic mutations affecting melanin production. This leads to heightened risks of skin cancer and visual impairments, while also exposing affected individuals to persistent stigma and harmful myths, including beliefs that the condition is contagious or a curse.
Zimplats has played an active role in addressing these challenges through targeted campaigns. In 2017, the company partnered with the Zimbabwean government to launch the “Beyond This Skin” campaign, aimed at reducing stigma and educating communities about albinism.
The following year, in 2018, Zimplats organized outreach programs in Matabeleland North, covering areas such as Binga, Hwange, and Lupane. Nearly 200 people with albinism received free eye screenings, sunglasses, sunscreen lotions, and hats. The company has also partnered with Nyaradzo Group to extend ongoing support to thousands of individuals every month with similar protective resources.
In addition to distributing essential supplies, Zimplats has supported medical referrals, including skin cancer screenings at Chegutu Hospital, and raised awareness about the importance of sun protection in preventing life-threatening health complications.
