ASSA commemorates International Albinism Day
Attendees included representatives from Actonville SAPS, Department of Education (northern district) as well as members from other organisations
The Albinism Society of South Africa (ASSA), in collaboration with the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, celebrated the International Albinism Day on June 28 at the Wattville Youth Centre.
The aim was to educate the community about albinism and how people can take care of people living with albinism.
Attendees included representatives from Actonville SAPS, Department of Education (northern district), Joy Clinic, traditional healers, Izwe Lonke Mothers Union, ward 30 councillor Kenny Ranyawo and representatives of the Anglican Church.
Shoki Kekana, the coordinator of ASSA, explained that Albinism Day is celebrated annually on June 13 but they decided to host the awareness campaign on June 28 to accommodate school children during the holiday.
“This is the first awareness day we have held in Ekurhuleni. We want to join the movement and speak about albinism while educating the public about the condition,” said Kekana.
Deputy minister of sports, arts and culture, Nocawe Mafu, urged the community to protect people living with albinism.
“Let’s stand together and fight for our people because they also deserve our love and care,” said Mafu.
Constable Valencia Lekgau of Actonville SAPS said the police are delighted to be part of such initiatives because it builds trust between the police and the community.
“We are grateful for the partnership we have with ASSA as we learn a lot from such events.
“Let us respect each other and not discriminate against people living with albinism.
“The police stations are always open for people who want to open cases related to the mistreatment of albinos. Social workers at the police stations are also on-site to assist in any matter,” said Lekgau.
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