Ablekuma North MP Calls for Enhanced Support for Persons with Albinism

Accra: Madam Ewurabena Aubynn, the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North, has called for urgent measures to improve the welfare of persons with albinism as Ghana joined the world to commemorate International Albinism Awareness Day, this year. According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Aubynn delivered a statement on the floor of Parliament on Friday, highlighting this year's theme, 'Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones.' She described it as a powerful reminder of the need to embrace diversity, reject discrimination, and affirm the equal dignity of all citizens. The International Albinism Awareness Day, designated by the United Nations in 2014, is celebrated annually on June 13. The day raises global awareness about albinism, combats discrimination, and promotes the rights and dignity of persons living with the condition. Madam Aubynn noted that while Ghana has not experienced the extreme violence reported in other African countries, persons with albinism continue to face stigma, exclusion, and health challenges. She explained that albinism is a genetically inherited condition characterized by reduced melanin pigment, often resulting in visual impairments and heightened vulnerability to skin damage and cancer. Ghana's tropical climate, she stressed, places persons with albinism at particular risk, yet access to sunscreen and specialized dermatological care remains limited. She expressed concern about the barriers faced by children with albinism in schools, including bullying, inadequate learning materials, and lack of classroom accommodations. These challenges, she said, undermine academic performance and limit full participation in education, while employment discrimination also remains a pressing issue. The MP noted that many persons with albinism are denied opportunities due to misconceptions about their abilities, while persistent stigma continues to affect their confidence, mental health, and overall quality of life. To address these concerns, Madam Aubynn proposed a series of interventions, includi ng expanding dermatological and ophthalmological care nationwide, including sunscreen under the National Health Insurance Scheme, strengthening inclusive education with assistive devices, and promoting employment opportunities. She also called for intensified public education campaigns to dispel harmful myths and stereotypes. She emphasized that Ghana's 1992 Constitution guarantees equality before the law, and as a signatory to international human rights instruments, the country has a duty to ensure persons with albinism enjoy equal rights and opportunities. She urged the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, alongside other stakeholders, to provide subsidized or free sunscreen, skin cancer screening, and psychosocial support services. In her concluding statement, Madam Aubynn reaffirmed Parliament's commitment to building an inclusive society. "In the spirit of this year's theme, 'Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones,' let us work together to eliminate discrimination, promote inclus ion, and ensure that persons with albinism can live, learn, work, and contribute fully to national development," she said.