#AIR-CLINIC WRITING CONTEST 7: ALBINOS ARE HUMAN TOO

[nosmas]

             ALBINISM IN AFRICA

In Africa today numerous challenges continually confront many people living with albinism first as individuals and as a demographic group within the continent.

Across African countries including Nigeria, Albinos are considered abnormal or physically disabled

The rate of albinism in Nigeria is ranked amongst the highest in the world with about two million albinos living in the country. By implication people living with albinism (PWA) in Nigeria represent one of the largest vulnerable groups in the country today. Despite their stated vulnerability and strength in number, and unlike other vulnerable groups in the Nigeria, they least enjoy the same level of special attention, security and support from governments at all levels in the country.

The need for special attention to be given to the security and socio-economic wellbeing of all persons living with albinism and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria cannot be overemphasised.

Specific areas of their lives require prime focus and special intervention. Identified areas requiring both governmental and societal intervention include healthcare, advocacy and social awareness education, social inclusion, academic education, economic empowerment, and socio-political protection from various forms of societal abuse and discrimination.

The poverty and lack of education suffered by albinos does not stem from any mental or physical disability, but mostly as a result of discrimination, social exclusion and stigma, and in some cases the human rights abuse they suffer as a result of their skin colour.

Statistics show that over 600,000 albinos suffer from discrimination among their friends,peers and worst of all family members. For instance, it is not uncommon to find families practicing infanticide on babies born with albinism. Or the deliberate neglect to educate children with albinism, believing that their employment chances are limited, and therefore their education a waste of resources.

Albinos, suffer from low self respect due to constant bullying and insults from people. As a result, they do not have the full social or economic tools to live productive lives. Lacking the confidence to compete well with others in the labour market and therefore unable to reach their full human potential. Both the individuals and the country suffer, as the vast majority of the skills of this group are not being utilized for the greater benefit of society.

Note: This article is about 350 words

Comments

[paulobacter]

Albinos usually have low self esteem there is one on my street, old women and other young guys do make jest of him
I just hope this stops soon
Nice piece @nosmas

[hafiz34]

For instance, it is not uncommon to find families practicing infanticide on babies born with albinism.

That much bad situation there!!!! I had no idea!! The things must be changed. Government should do something for them. they are like other citizens too. Hope that positive changes will come there.

[peterakpan]

This needs collective hands to help settle this mess from the government to business men and top politicians even footballers we all need to join hands to say no to albinism

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