As preparations for this year’s International Albinism Awareness Day, slated for 10 June in Lilongwe are heating up, partners have called for continued protection and promotion of human rights for people living with albinism in the country.

As one way of ensuring this, a consortium comprising 4 organizations which include Biwi Collective, Standing Voice and Lake of Stars are conducting community awareness events dubbed Lazarus Music Festival in Zomba, Machinga and Dedza in an effort to build momentum as June 10 approaches.

Executive Director for Standing Voice, Bonface Massa says this year they are targeting young people and the rural masses with the awareness messages who will carry the agenda forward moving away from conferences and meetings which have barely produced results.

Massa believes that the festivals will help in building the oneness and connectedness which have been lacking in the fight against attacks of people with albinism.

“Until we reach a level where we feel protected and we trust our own society that will be the pillar of our inclusion and strength, this is the basic line that we want to reach to ensure that we protect and promote the rights of people with albinism,” Massa said.

The festivals are headlined by performances from Lazarus Chigwandali who is a music artist living with albinism and also comprise a film documentary of his life which was executive produced by American songstress Madonna in 2019.

In an interview, Chigwandali said he has been using music to fight stigma of albinism and views the festivals as an opportunity to raise more awareness and shine a light of hope for the people living with albinism.

The main event, slated for 10 June in Lilongwe at Gateway Mall is expected to bring together all stakeholders that advocate for the rights of people with albinism and will also feature performances by Tay Grin and Suffix among other notable artists. The theme for this year’s International Albinism Awareness Day is ‘Inclusion is strength’.