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People Living With Albinism Decry Discrimination

25 June, 2025
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People Living with Albinism in Bugisu have decried the high rate of discrimination they face in the community.


Albinism is a rare genetic condition caused by mutations, or changes, of certain genes that affect the amount of melanin one’s body produces. Melanin controls the pigmentation (color) of the skin, eyes and hair. People with albinism have extremely pale skin, eyes and hair.

Elizabeth Negesa the executive director, Elgon Foundation for Persons with Albinism (EFPA) says that the discrimination is evident in schools, health facilities and in the community. Negesa says that people living with albinism have low vision, therefore requiring children to sit near the blackboard when in class but this is not implemented by teachers in most schools.

On employment opportunities, Negesa says that educated people living with albinism are often sidelined even when they qualify for certain jobs. She has also decried the negative attitude that the public has towards them.

Oliver Kakayi the councilor representing people living with disability in Mbale District says that most women living with disability are looked often under looked by the community and denied marriage opportunities and other essential services.

But Peace Musiya a senior three student at Bukonde Secondary School in Mbale City who is living with albinism says that her fellow students and teachers have been supportive. Musiya’s dream is to become a medical doctor.

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