By: Francis Ofori
Accra, June 13, GNA-Ensign Global University, in collaboration with Engage Now Africa has commemorated the International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) 2026 through a stakeholder engagement programme aimed at strengthening inclusion, awareness, and advancing better healthcare outcomes for persons living with albinism in Ghana.
The event brought together persons with albinism, health experts, policymakers, researchers, educators, students, civil society groups, and media practitioners to champion inclusion and drive meaningful change.
The International Albinism Awareness Day was designed to foster multi-sectoral dialogue and coordinated action on the rights, health needs, and social inclusion of persons with albinism.
Despite growing advocacy, persons with albinism in Ghana continue to battle heightened risks of skin cancer and visual impairment, while grappling with stigma, discrimination, and limited access to quality healthcare and education.
Speaking at the event, Professor Stephen Alder, President of Ensign Global University, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to championing equal opportunities for persons with albinism, and the chance to thrive without barriers.
“Ensign Global University is committed to reducing barriers to accessing health system resources as fundamental to national development as evident in our research, collaboration, and advocacy endeavors.”
Madam Cecelia Amankwah, Country Director, Engage Now Africa expressed appreciation to Ensign Global University for convening the important dialogue on International Albinism Awareness Day.
She noted that the gathering underscored a collective resolve to promote dignity, improve health outcomes, and foster greater inclusion for persons with albinism in Ghana.
“At Engage Now Africa, we continue to witness both the resilience of persons with albinism and the persistent barriers they face in everyday life, particularly in accessing adequate healthcare, protection, and social acceptance”, she added.
She stressed that evidence from ongoing collaborative efforts highlights the urgent need for coordinated, multi-sectoral action that goes beyond awareness and delivers real change for persons with albinism.
The country Director noted that Engage Now Africa would continue to work closely with partners to translate dialogue into measurable impact.
The International Albinism Awareness Day commemoration provides an important opportunity to strengthen awareness and encourage evidence-based action.
This year’s edition focused on strengthening awareness, improving cross-sector collaboration, and promoting inclusive health and education systems for persons with albinism in Ghana.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade