Stanbic Bank has donated sun protection products worth ZWL 3.5 million to the Albino Charity Organization of Zimbabwe (ALCOZ).
By Patricia Mashiri
The donated products include 1000 units of sunscreen lotions,1 000 units of antibacterial soap,1 000 units of antiseptic liquid, 1 000 units of lip balm, 1000 units of antiseptic ointment and 1 000 sunhats.
Speaking during the handover ceremony Lucy Dlodlo, Manager for Sponsorship, Events and CSI Stanbic Bank said the institution was committed to play its part in protecting people with albinism from the sun cognizant of the negative effects it has on their sensitive skin.
“As we consolidate our relationship with ALCOZ we at Stanbic Bank have grown to appreciate the challenges people living with albinism face especially in terms of sensitivity to sun rays but also in relation to the rising cost of living. We know that these skin protection products are priced out of the reach of many hence Stanbic Bank now sets aside funds annually to meet their needs. COVID 19 pandemic was also taking its toll on lives as well as causing economic hardships hence this donation is worth a while,” Dlodlo said.
In her acceptance speech, Loveness Mainato ALCOZ Founder and Director thanked Stanbic Bank for its continued support of its members.
“The timing by Stanbic Bank could not have been better. We thank you for coming just as the weather is changing from being chilly to blazing hot. There is nothing as discomforting as seeing someone with albinism struggling due to lack of skin protection products.We really feel for the parents of people with albinism in these trying economic times and are so grateful that Stanbic has spared a thought for our members.
“ALCOZ will always cherish the support from Stanbic Bank especially as it has a multi-pronged effect of cushioning the beneficiaries from the pressures of the prevailing economic challenges and most importantly protecting them from the elements,” Maitano said
People living with albinism need protection from the harmful effects of the sun owing to the lack of melanin in their skin which serves as a shield from the sun. They rely on sunscreens lotions, special oils and lip balm for protection from the sun.
