NGO Reports: Albinos

What is albinism – Under the Same Sun

This report by Under the Same Sun explains what albinism is, and discusses some of the key challenges faced by persons living with albinism. See here: What is Albinism – UTSS

Under the Same Sun – “Albino” vs “Person with Albinism (PWA)

Statement by Under the Same Sun; an NGO which advocates for the dignity and protection of persons with albinism, clarifying and explaining their preference of the term “person with albinism” over “albino”. see here:Official Position of Under the Same Sun

Tanzania: Children with Albinism & the Right to Health

Children with albinism (“CWA” – commonly referred to as “albinos”) are a particularly endangered group due to the difficult circumstances in the sub Saharan Africa region. A good number are killed at birth, others abandoned in early childhood, still others are killed by exposure to sunlight and skin cancer.
More recently, scores with albinism including children have been killed due to the witchcraft-related belief that their body parts can be used to create wealth and good luck when used in witchcraft potions. To date there have been 71  documented killings of Persons With Albinism (PWA), 30 Survivors and 17 grave robberies. A majority (over half) of these victims are under the age of 18. The following brief carried out by Under the Same Sun discusses the issues faced by ‘CWA’. Read more here.

Through albino eyes: the plight of albino people in Africa’s Great Lakes region and a Red Cross Response

A report conducted by the Red Cross looking into the plight of albinos living in Burundi and Tanzania. Full report here.

Children Accused of Witchcraft: An anthropological study of contemporary practices in Africa

This report addresses the issue of children who are victims of violence and mistreatment due to local beliefs, representations and practices, in particular, relating to witchcraft.  The present document reveals and analyzes the diversity and
of these phenomena ‐ often falsely associated with “African tradition” ‐ related to beliefs in witchcraft and the “mystical” world. Using examples from sub‐Saharan Africa, the study clarifies the basis for certain social practices that are wholly or partially misunderstood by western observers.

Targeting child protection agencies, the report provides guidance on effective child protection interventions. See full report here.