Hats ‘medication’ for Namibians with albinism
Namibia Albino Association vice president Walde Kambabi says for people with albinism, a simple sun hat is not just protective gear, but crucial for survival. This comes as SanlamAllianz handed over 3 900 protective, waterproof sun hats to the association in Windhoek yesterday. The donation is aimed at reducing the risk of skin cancer and […] The post Hats ‘medication’ for Namibians with albinism appeared first on The Namibian.
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Namibia Albino Association vice president Walde Kambabi says for people with albinism, a simple sun hat is not just protective gear, but crucial for survival.
This comes as SanlamAllianz handed over 3 900 protective, waterproof sun hats to the association in Windhoek yesterday.
The donation is aimed at reducing the risk of skin cancer and improving the beneficiaries’ daily lives.
Kambabi said it addresses a critical need for people with albinism, who face constant exposure to harmful sunlight.
“When you’re talking about the hat – it’s like medication to us,” he said.
“Without a hat, a person with albinism cannot go outside or in the sun.”
Kambabi said SanlamAllianz approached the association with an offer to help last year.
He said there are about 3 616 people with albinism in Namibia, although he added that this number is outdated.
“This was in 2004. We believe we are more than that,” he said.
Following consultations, the association identified protective headwear as a priority need.
“SanlamAllianz approached us again and asked what we wanted. Then we said we need hats to protect us from the sun,” Kambabi said.
The hats are expected to be distributed nationwide, particularly at upcoming events marking International Albinism Awareness Day in June.
“International Albinism Day is observed in June. We will start giving those gifts to people with albinism at these events,” Kambabi said.
SanlamAllianz marketing and communications consultant Victoria Kambala yesterday said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to inclusivity.
“Supporting the community of people with albinism reflects SanlamAllianz’s commitment to contributing to the national ethos of the Namibian House – that no Namibian child is left behind,” she said.
Namibia Albino Association president Joseph Ndinomupya welcomed the donation, describing it as essential.
“For persons with albinism, a hat is not an accessory, it is a critical shield,” he said.
Kambabi called on other companies to follow suit by supporting the community with additional protective resources.
He said sunscreen is another urgent need.
Kambabi said the donation is expected to improve safety, mobility and dignity for people with albinism – many of whom rely on protective measures to carry out everyday activities outdoors.
The post Hats ‘medication’ for Namibians with albinism appeared first on The Namibian.
