Mathew Masinge
Over 150 people with albinism from various parts of Harare on Saturday benefited from a local evangelist’s charity work.
Evangelist Eria Chibvongo donated sun cream lotions, sun hats, clothes, cash and grocery hampers to several people with albinism at his healing centre in Tynwald.
The event was also graced by various sponsors, gospel musicians and prayer partners.
“This is a dream come true, I have a soft spot for people with albinism and always want to remember them every festive season.
“Local temperatures have been soaring as a result of the effects of the drought and this is a small token to get them through this period.
“A lot of people have contributed to this cause and I want to thank everyone who helped us improve these people’s lives,” said Chibvongo.
He said he has big plans to raise more funds.
“We are in the process of coming up with a database which we will use to support people with albinism through various activities including fundraising and advocacy.
“Our aim is to improve their lifestyle, raise awareness and equip them so that they can sustain themselves to afford a few essentials for their skin.”
Lordwin Rimire, a representative of the beneficiaries, said:
“We want to thank Evangelist Chibvongo and his team for extending their hand to people with albinism, this will go a long way.
“Most of us can’t afford the sun cream and when we are continuously exposed to the sun it’s a nightmare for us.”
Albinism is a rare genetic condition that affects the amount of melanin produced in one’s body to control skin pigmentation, colour of eyes and hair.