The Ghana Association of Persons with Albinism (GAPA) is calling on the government to prioritise the implementation of policies and programmes that will promote equal opportunities for persons with albinism.

The association asserts that targeted government programmes focused on creating employment opportunities, economic empowerment, and inclusiveness will enhance the rights and well-being of persons with albinism.

The association's call for inclusiveness for persons with albinism coincided with the 2024 International Albinism Awareness Day, a platform used to raise awareness and increase understanding of albinism as a disability and the participation of persons with albinism at all levels of society.

In a statement to mark the day on June 13, 2024, Newton Kwamla Katseku, the Executive Director of the Ghana Association of Persons with Albinism (GAPA), emphasised that the theme for this year’s celebration reignites with persistent calls for more support for persons with albinism in Ghana.

“As we commemorate this year’s International Albinism Awareness Day under the theme “10 years of IAAD: A decade of collective progress”, GAPA renews its call for all Ghanaians to join us in celebrating the dignity and contributions of people with albinism, and to work collectively towards a more inclusive and equitable society where no one is left behind.”

Newton Kwamla Katseku appealed to stakeholders to collectively work towards building a more inclusive and equitable society where persons with albinism would be empowered to reach their full potential.

“Together we can build a Ghana where persons with albinism are empowered to reach their full potential and live with dignity, free from discrimination and fear.”

He nonetheless bemoaned that, despite the gains made within the last decade, persons with albinism are often subjected to multiple and intersecting discrimination on the grounds of both disability and colour and called for a renewed commitment towards improving their future.

“However, despite this progress, persons with albinism in Ghana and across Africa continue to face grave threats to their safety and well-being. Harmful practices including physical attacks for ritual purposes, discrimination, social stigma, and limited economic opportunities remain persistent challenges that require sustained action and commitment from all stakeholders.”

History of International Albinism Awareness Day

The United Nations General Assembly on December 18, 2014, adopted a resolution establishing June 13th as International Albinism Awareness Day. This historic resolution confirmed the global focus on albinism advocacy.