MP pushes for protection of people living with albinism

Member of Parliament for Krachi Nchumuru, Mr. John Majisi has reiterated the call on government for the protection of albinos in the country.

Making a statement on the floor of parliament in connection with the International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD), he said persons with Albinism face multiple forms of discrimination worldwide because of their distinctive appearance.

“They are often denied the most basic rights, such as access to education, healthcare, employment, right to political participation, social and family life and their freedom of movement is curtailed”, Majisi stated.

Persons with albinism are born with a congenital condition characterized by complete or partial absence of melanin, the pigment which gives colour to the skin, hair and eyes. Albinism is non-contagious and occurs in all racial and ethnic groups throughout the world.

In the area of health, Majisi said persons with albinism have pale or fair skin, susceptible to sunburns, skin cancers, wrinkling of the skin and chapped lips which can lead to cancer and live with poor vision uncorrectable either by medication or eyeglasses.

“Regarding education, it has been noted that most Persons with Albinism encounter obstacles in formal schooling and skill acquisition as their studies. They also face social challenges with inclusion and forming positive relationships with other students, as they are often subject to ridicule, exclusion and even ostracism”, he stated.

According to Hon. Majisi, the World Bank in 2011 reported that the overall employment rates for persons with disabilities are low in 12 out of 15 countries studied.

“Meanwhile, persons with disabilities are generally poorer. They need to spend more on medical care or personal support, and at the same time they need to overcome various barriers which prevent them from earning a living”, he said.

Majisi urged government to pay attention on key issues affecting albinos notable among them are health, education and database of all albinos
He pointed out that on health the inclusion of sun care products, dermatological and optical services list for persons with albinism.

On education it includes the mainstreaming albinism and disability issues in all levels of educational system.

“Printed material in large fonts and allowing persons with albinism to sit closer to chalkboards in classrooms, allowing some extra time for persons with albinism during examinations and database for a reliable and accurate database of all persons with albinism to ensure timely dissemination of information and continuous provision of support services to all persons with albinism”, he added.