Accra: The Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North, Ewurabena Aubynn, has urged the government to take urgent practical steps to improve the welfare of persons with albinism as Ghana prepares to observe International Albinism Awareness Day on Saturday, June 13.
According to Ghana Web, Ewurabena Aubynn highlighted the persistent challenges faced by persons with albinism, including discrimination, stigma, and serious health risks, while commending this year's global theme, 'Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones.' Aubynn noted that individuals with albinism continue to encounter discrimination, stigma, and exclusion within the society.
She further explained that while Ghana has been spared the extreme violence seen in some African countries, significant social, economic, and health-related challenges remain. Albinism, a genetically inherited condition, is characterized by reduced or absent melanin pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes. Persons with albinism often suffer visual impairments and are at heightened risk of skin damage and skin cancer due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation, a situation worsened by Ghana's tropical climate and intense sunlight.
Ewurabena Aubynn identified skin cancer as one of the most pressing concerns, noting that access to sunscreen, regular dermatological care, and treatment remains limited for many. She emphasized the inadequacy of eye care services, assistive devices, and educational support, which affects education and employment opportunities for individuals with albinism.
The MP also highlighted issues such as bullying, lack of classroom accommodations in schools, and employment discrimination that limits economic participation and affects mental health. Citing Ghana's 1992 Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law and protection from discrimination, Aubynn called on the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and other stakeholders to act decisively.
She proposed the provision of subsidized or free sunscreen and skin cancer screening services, expansion of specialized dermatological and ophthalmological care nationwide, and the inclusion of approved sunscreen products under the National Health Insurance Scheme. Additionally, the MP advocated for strengthening inclusive education through the provision of assistive devices, appropriate learning materials, and teacher support, promoting employment opportunities and economic empowerment programs for persons with albinism, intensifying public education campaigns to eliminate myths, stereotypes, and discrimination, expanding access to mental health and psychosocial support services, and improving data collection to support evidence-based policymaking and resource allocation.
'As we commemorate International Albinism Awareness Day 2026, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a society where every citizen is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of appearance or genetic condition,' Ewurabena Aubynn stated. She concluded by urging all Ghanaians to embrace the theme of the day and work collectively to eliminate discrimination and promote full inclusion of persons with albinism in national development.