DWYPD Calls on South Africans to Protect Rights of People with Albinism During Awareness Month
DWYPD calls on South Africans to protect rights of people with albinism during Awareness Month, as the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities urges unity in fighting stigma and violence while promoting inclusion and dignity for those affected by the condition. The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has called on all South Africans to work together in creating inclusive and safe environments where people with albinism can live with dignity and without fear. The appeal comes as the country observes National Albinism Awareness Month, marked annually in September to promote understanding, fight stigma, and protect the rights of persons with albinism.
Understanding Albinism: A Genetic Condition Affecting Thousands
Albinism is a rare, genetically inherited condition that affects the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for colouring the skin, hair, and eyes. In South Africa, it impacts about one in every 4 000 people, a rate much higher than the global average of one in 20 000. This means roughly 15 000 to 20 000 individuals live with albinism nationwide, facing unique health and social hurdles from birth. Without melanin, people with albinism have pale skin, white or light hair, and light-coloured eyes, making them highly sensitive to sunlight. This raises their risk of skin cancer—up to 1 000 times higher than the general population—and vision problems like nystagmus or photophobia, which can affect daily activities such as reading or driving.
The condition is not contagious or a curse, as some harmful myths suggest, but a result of genetic mutations passed down from both parents. In many African communities, including South Africa, outdated beliefs link albinism to supernatural powers or bad luck, leading to exclusion from schools, jobs, and social groups. These misconceptions fuel dangerous practices, such as attacks for body parts believed to bring wealth or luck in rituals—a grim reality documented in regions like Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal.
Health and Social Challenges: Beyond the Physical Impact
People with albinism face not only health challenges, such as sensitivity to the sun and vision impairments, but also harmful discrimination, stigma, and violence. In South Africa, many endure bullying in schools, job rejections due to misconceptions about their abilities, and even physical harm. Reports from organisations like Amnesty International highlight cases of abductions and killings, with at least 20 documented murders since 2010 linked to ritual beliefs. Women and children with albinism are especially at risk, facing higher rates of sexual violence due to myths about “curing” HIV.
Sun exposure poses a lifelong threat, with 90% of people with albinism in sub-Saharan Africa developing skin cancer by age 30 without protection. Access to sunscreen, hats, and long-sleeve clothing is often limited in rural areas, worsening outcomes. Vision issues affect education—many drop out due to poor school accommodations like large-print books or seating adjustments. Employment rates are low, with only 20% of working-age individuals with albinism in formal jobs, per a 2023 study by the University of Pretoria.
DWYPD Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga, highlighted that people with albinism face not only health challenges, such as sensitivity to the sun and vision impairments, but also harmful discrimination, stigma, and violence. “This month provides an opportunity for South Africans to raise awareness about the realities of living with albinism, dispel harmful myths, and promote inclusion in education, employment, healthcare, and community life,” Chikunga said.
This Year’s Theme: A Call for Protection and Rights
This year’s awareness campaign is being observed under the theme: “Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives.” It focuses on safeguarding health through better access to protective gear and medical care, while demanding equal rights in society. The theme builds on global efforts like the United Nations’ International Albinism Awareness Day on 13 June, but September’s national focus allows for localised campaigns in schools, clinics, and communities.
Events this month include workshops in Gauteng on myth-busting, free skin cancer screenings in Cape Town, and advocacy marches in Durban. The DWYPD has partnered with groups like Albinism Society of South Africa (ASSA) for radio talks and social media drives, reaching over 500 000 people last year. Chikunga encouraged celebrating diversity: “The Minister also emphasised the importance of advocating for the protection of persons with albinism against discrimination, exploitation, and violence; while also celebrating their diversity by recognising the achievements, talents, and contributions to society.”
Aligning with Regional Commitments: The SADC Declaration
The department also urged all stakeholders to align their efforts with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Declaration on the Protection of Persons with Albinism, adopted on 17 August 2024 at the SADC Summit in Harare, Zimbabwe. The declaration demonstrates commitment by governments to protect the rights of persons with Albinism who are faced with numerous attacks ranging from abductions, killings, maiming, discrimination and trafficking.
Signed by 16 SADC nations, it commits to anti-discrimination laws, health support, and awareness programmes. South Africa, as a signatory, has integrated this into policies like the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence, providing legal aid and shelters for victims. The declaration addresses cross-border trafficking, with over 200 cases reported in SADC since 2010, and calls for regional cooperation on investigations.
A United Call to Action: Building Inclusive Environments
Chikunga wrapped up her message with a strong plea: “Through collaborative efforts, awareness campaigns, and advocacy, we can build a society where diversity is embraced, rights are respected, and every person – regardless of skin colour or condition – is valued. Together, let us stand for inclusion, equality, and the protection of persons with albinism. We call on all citizens, communities, schools, faith-based institutions, and the private sector to unite in creating inclusive, safe environments where people with albinism can live with dignity and without fear.”
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