By Godwill Arthur-Mensah/Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, June 12, GNA – 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.
Delivering a statement on the floor of Parliament on Friday, Madam Aubynn highlighted this year’s theme, “Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones,” describing it as a powerful reminder of the need to embrace diversity, reject discrimination, and affirm the equal dignity of all citizens.
The Day, designated by the United Nations, in 2014. is celebrated every year on June 13; and 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.
Madam Aubyynn explained that albinism is a genetically inherited condition characterized by reduced melanin pigment, which often results in visual impairments and heightened vulnerability to skin damage and cancer.
Ghana’s tropical climate, she stressed, placed persons with albinism at particular risk, yet access to sunscreen and specialized dermatological care remains limited.
She expressed concern about barriers faced by children with albinism in schools, including bullying, inadequate learning materials, and lack of classroom accommodations
These challenges, she said, undermined academic performance and limit full participation in education while employment discrimination also remained 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 Aubyynn proposed a series of interventions including 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 emphasised that Ghana’s 1992 Constitution guarantees equality before the law, and as a signatory to international human rights instruments, the country had a duty to ensure persons with albinism enjoyed equal rights and opportunities.
She urged the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, alongside other stakeholders, to provide subsidised or free sunscreen, skin cancer screening and psychosocial support services.
In her concluding statement, Madam Aubyynn 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 inclusion, and ensure that persons with albinism can live, learn, work, and contribute fully to national development,” she said.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah
Reporters: Godwill Arthur-Mensah
[email protected]
Elsie Appiah-Osei
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