The Zambian government has called for a united and multi-sectoral approach to tackle the growing injustices faced by persons with albinism, including discrimination and violent crimes such as murder. Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary Henry Mukungule emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive measures to safeguard the rights and dignity of people with albinism, citing the alarming rise in abuses against this vulnerable group.
Speaking during a workshop on access to justice for persons with albinism, facilitated by Caritas Zambia in Chinsali, Mr. Mukungule highlighted the critical need for collaboration among stakeholders to address these issues. The workshop was held to build the capacity of justice actors and to assess the effectiveness of existing legal protections for persons with albinism.
In a speech read on his behalf by Provincial Assistant Secretary Brian Sichande, Mukungule stressed that the government remains committed to supporting the rights of persons with albinism and called for immediate policy reforms to address these challenges. “This situation should be addressed urgently with concrete measures, policies, and legal reforms where necessary,” he stated.
The Permanent Secretary also expressed concern over the increasing levels of violence and discrimination, underscoring the importance of urgent action. “From discrimination to murder, the situation has escalated, and we must work together to fight these injustices,” he added.
Caritas Mpika Project Officer Baidon Chandipo, who was involved in facilitating the workshop, explained that the main objective was to build the capacity of legal and justice professionals to better understand the rights of persons with albinism. The training also focused on evaluating the effectiveness of current legal mechanisms protecting these individuals.
Chandipo urged the government and other stakeholders to support ongoing efforts aimed at ensuring the equal rights of persons with albinism. He also highlighted the ongoing challenges these individuals face in accessing justice for their violations, noting that the workshop would help advocates implement Zambia’s national action plan for persons with disabilities.
“The workshop aims to provide the tools needed for justice actors to advocate for the rights of persons with albinism more effectively. It is essential that we continue to work towards eliminating the barriers they face,” Chandipo said.
The government has called for all sectors to join forces in protecting the rights of persons with albinism, stressing that their dignity and safety should be a priority for all.
Keywords: Latest news in Zambia, Muchinga Province, rights of persons with albinism, justice for albinism, Zambian government, Caritas Zambia, access to justice, legal protection for persons with albinism, albinism discrimination, multi-sectoral collaboration in Zambia
Keywords: Latest news in Zambia, Muchinga Province, rights of persons with albinism, justice for albinism, Zambian government, Caritas Zambia, access to justice, legal protection for persons with albinism, albinism discrimination, multi-sectoral collaboration in Zambia
