Albinism is a genetic
condition characterised by a lack of melanin pigmentation in the skin, hair and
eyes. Albino is a person who suffers albinism. People affected by Albinism are
extreme sun-sensitivity, some of them suffer vision loss and skin cancer. They
also develop psychological issues stemming from embarrassment. There is no cure
for albinism, people with the disorder can take steps to protect their skin and
maximize their vision. Albinism is a rare, non-contagious, genetically
inherited condition occurring in both genders regardless of ethnicity, in all
countries of the world. It is estimated that around the world about 1
in 17,000 people have some form of albinism; the countries with the biggest
Albino population are: Tanzania 1 in 1,429, USA 1 in 37000, UK 1 in 17000
and China 1 in 18000.
In many part of the world, albinos enjoy
equal treatment. Even in Africa some of them enjoy a normal life. However, in
some African nations, most commonly in Tanzania, albinos are hunted for their
body parts because of superstitions that say body part of albinos have magical
powers to cure deadly diseases. Some traditions in Africa
perceive albinism as a sign of bad luck. Albinos
have been exploited and butchered in the street by witch doctors who use such body parts as ingredients in rituals
and potions with the claim that their magic will bring
prosperity to the user. People believe that certain body parts of
albinism people can transmit magical powers; some people believes that
albinos are ghost.
The discrimination against albinos have
to be eliminated. Awareness campaign could be used to changing people
behaviour. It is also important that
people understand the cause of albinism and the difference between myth and
facts to change their attitude. Education is a key to solve this problem.
Authorities should use legislation and policies to make people obey the law.
According to Reports from the Tanzania Albino Society say more than 35
albinos have been killed this year, and many other deaths have likely gone
unreported, by local Tanzanians who believe their blood and body parts can
bring wealth to others.
Last year, the United Nations
reported a total of 448 attacks on Albinos, across 25 African countries. UNICEF claims for measures from the judiciary, media,
religious leaders, politicians and communities to reinforce the response and
weed out deeply-rooted superstitious beliefs that incite the murders. UNICEF
said that they will be working with the Tanzanian Government, UN offices in
Tanzania and others to ensure albinos like other citizens enjoy their
fundamental rights to life, freedom and protection.
The discrimination and assassinate
of albinos in Africa can be eliminated. It will, however, take time, money, and
a combined effort of authorities and politician. Awareness and education could
be a good start to stop such act but it will take long time. The human right
condemns any type of discrimination but in some part of the world the law is
not applied. Thus, the authorities must put all their effort to make everyone
to obey the law.