People with albinism want inclusion in AIP
Some people with albinism (PWAs) in Rumphi have complained that they were left out of the 2020/21 Affordable Inputs Programme (AIP).
They expressed the concerns on Saturday at the end of a human rights orientation meeting organised by Association of People with Albinism in Malawi (Apam) for PWAs and parents and relatives of PWAs at Rumphi Boma.
In his remarks, Apam national executive member Christopher Ndovie, who is also a representative of PWAs in the Northern Region, said the people are also not included in social cash transfer.
He said: “I can say security for PWAs has increased, thanks to the police and community members whoplay a crucial role in this.
“However, there are still challenges such as being denied access to affordable farm inputs and social cash transfer.”
On his part, Federation for People with Disabilities in Malawi Rumphi district coordinator Oliver Kajiso Gondwe, who is also Apam Rumphi Chapter vice-chairperson, said he received 14 complaints from PWAs who were left out of AIP.
He said when he raised the issue with Rumphi District Council, he was told that they would be considered in the 2021/22 farming season.
“But I am yet to see their names,” said Gondwe.
However, Rumphi district social welfare officer Zindaba Lungu said some PWAs may have been left out due to inclusion errors as they are not household heads.
When contacted, Rumphi District Council director of agriculture, environment and natural resources Lumbani Msiska said selection of beneficiaries was done by communities with chiefs, area development committees and village development committees at an open forum.
The district has 22 registered PWAs.
