Africa will be saved

The Albinism Society of South Africa (ASSA) held a press briefing on 12 June in Braamfontein ahead of celebration of International Albinism Awareness Day. The day focuses on raising public awareness of albinism and preventing attacks and discrimination against persons with albinism.

National Director of ASSA Nomasonto Mazibuko said children born with albinism are vulnerable to bullying and widespread social rejection.

“People with albinism have been killed and mutilated in parts of Africa because people believe their body parts have some sort of magical power. By celebrating 13 June every year, we are looking for legislation to protect children with albinism.”

Mazibuko spoke about her own struggles of living with albinism from her childhood but added that her sister, who also has the congenital disorder, inspired her to be courageous and celebrate who she is.

According to Nomasonto Mazibuko, albinism should not be seen as a medical condition only. Social challenges, including prejudice and discrimination, also prevent people with albinism from participating fully in society. Stigma and prejudice can be overcome through understanding both the medical and social facts.

Mazibuko added that the discrimination of albinos often starts at home, where parents will constantly cry in pity or ask,” ‘Why me, God? Why was I given a child like this?’

“We are saying there is no room for discrimination toward people of albinism. Our Constitution states that everyone has a right to life and that includes people with albinism,” she continued.

Albinism is a congenital disorder characterised by the partial or complete absence of the pigment melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes. Lack or absence of melanin in the skin makes persons with albinism more susceptible to sunburn and skin cancers. Albinism is also associated with visual problems, namely photophobia, amblyopia (lazy eye), nystagmus and others.

Details: Albinism Society of South Africa 011 838 6529.