Albinism in Malawi
Albinism in Malawi refers to the experiences of people with albinism (PWAs) in Malawi, many of whom face discrimination, violence, and limited access to healthcare and education. Albinism is a genetic condition that results in a lack of melanin, making individuals more vulnerable to sun exposure and vision problems.
Human rights issues
[edit]Since 2014, over 170 attacks on people with albinism have been reported in Malawi, including killings and grave tampering. These attacks are often linked to beliefs that body parts of PWAs bring luck or wealth.[1]
In 2022, a Malawian court convicted 12 individuals, including a police officer and a priest, for the murder of a 22-year-old man with albinism. Seven of them were found guilty of selling his body parts.[2]
Health and education
[edit]People with albinism in Malawi face significant health challenges, particularly related to skin cancer due to increased sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. Access to adequate healthcare and protective measures, such as sunscreen and protective clothing, is often limited, especially in rural areas.[3]
Educational opportunities for PWAs are also hindered by discrimination and lack of resources. Visual impairments associated with albinism can affect learning, and without appropriate support, many children with albinism struggle academically.[3]
Advocacy and representation
[edit]In 2019, six individuals with albinism ran for parliamentary and local government positions in Malawi, aiming to combat stigma through political engagement.[4]
In 2021, Malawi's parliament welcomed its first ever elected albino lawmaker, Overstone Kondowe, marking a significant step towards inclusion.[5]
Government and international response
[edit]The United Nations has warned that people with albinism in Malawi are at risk of "systemic extinction" due to relentless attacks fueled by superstitions.[6]
Efforts have been made to integrate PWAs into public service roles. In 2022, Malawi's police service welcomed its first officers with albinism, aiming to restore confidence in law enforcement.[7]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Albinism Community in Malawi Demands an End to Attacks". Voice of America. 10 July 2023.
- ^ "Malawi Court Convicts 12 People in Albino Attack". Voice of America. 3 May 2022.
- ^ a b "A friend killed, and inquiries shelved: life fighting the stigma of albinism in Malawi". The Guardian. 22 April 2025.
- ^ "Malawi albinos: Six people to stand in 2019 elections to fight stigma". CNN. 26 June 2018.
- ^ "Malawi Parliament Welcomes Country's First Ever Albino Lawmaker". Voice of America. 4 November 2021.
- ^ "UN Official: People With Albinism Risk 'Extinction' in Malawi". Voice of America. 4 May 2016.
- ^ "Malawi Police Welcomes Country's First Albino Officers". Voice of America. 25 August 2022.