Boost resources for rural people living with albinism

Vice president of the Namibia Albinism Association, Walde Kambabi, has called for greater support and awareness to address the needs of people living with albinism, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare and protective resources remains limited.Speaking at an event commemorating International Albinism Awareness Day last week, Kambabi commended government for recognising the day and for including people with albinism in workplaces.However, he stressed the need for increased distribution of vital resources to remote communities.“We appreciate the government’s recognition of this international day and the inclusion of people with albinism in various sectors,” he said. “However, we are appealing for the distribution of sunscreen and protective creams to remote areas where many of our members live.”Kambabi also encouraged family members and caregivers to provide support with compassion and dignity, highlighting that skin cancer remains a major health concern for those with albinism.Bring services closer The Namibia Statistics Agency’s 2023 Population and Housing Census indicates that approximately 38 000 Namibians live with albinism, many of them in rural areas with limited access to healthcare services.During Friday's event, doctors from Oshakati Intermediate Hospital, including Dr Paulina Munalye and Dr Hileni Nangolo, conducted free medical screenings aimed at promoting early detection and prevention of skin cancer. The screenings were held in partnership with the Northern Skins Clinic.Selma Murama (41) from Oniipa expressed her appreciation for the outreach efforts, noting that she usually has to travel to Oshakati for such services.Support each other Kambabi further highlighted progress made by individuals with albinism, acknowledging that despite facing discrimination, many have risen to become leaders, police officers, nurses, doctors, educators and peer mentors within their communities.The Namibia Albinism Association, founded in 1999 and operational since July 2001, has over 2 700 registered members. Its mission is to promote the rights, dignity and well-being of people with albinism while raising public awareness and combatting stigma.“We also call on all stakeholders to join us in eliminating stereotypes, stigma and all forms of discrimination still present in society,” Kambabi said.The event brought together people with albinism from across the country to share experiences, support one another and celebrate their identity.- tuyeimo@nmh-hub.com.na

Boost resources for rural people living with albinism

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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Boost resources for rural people living with albinism

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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