As we commemorate the 2024 International Albinism Awareness Day, our attention is drawn to the devastating impact of climate change on individuals with albinism in Nigeria. The prevalence of skin cancer among young persons with albinism has reached alarming rates, claiming lives in their 20s and 30s.
According to the United Nations Independent Expert on the Enjoyment of Rights for Persons with Albinism, Ms. Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond, her recent research highlights the tragic impact of climate change, global warming, gas flaring, acid rain, and the increasing greenhouse gas emissions. The UV ray is rising that results in more vulnerabilities particularly in southern Nigeria, where fossil combustion has led to a surge in harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. 3-5 persons with Albinism die of skin cancer every half of the year.
The statistics are heart-wrenching: many young individuals with albinism have lost their lives due to skin cancer, a preventable condition. The lack of melanin in their skin makes them vulnerable to the harsh effects of UV radiation, which has been exacerbated by climate change. It is our collective responsibility to act and ensure that people living with Albinism get their rightful care and support. Asante Mariamu (a USA based NGO working on Albinism awareness in East Africa) reports that only 2 per cent of people with Albinism live to age 40. Access to affordable sunscreen and other forms of sun protection are not available to this group of people who are also financially marginalised.
However, there is hope. By collaborating with well-meaning individuals, philanthropists, development partners, and government agencies, we can establish a sunscreen factory in Nigeria. This initiative has proven successful in other African countries, providing a vital resource for individuals with albinism to protect themselves from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
As we work towards building an inclusive society, we must prioritize the needs of individuals with albinism. This includes access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. We must also challenge harmful stereotypes and stigmatization, promoting awareness and understanding of albinism.
The theme of the 2024 International Albinism Awareness Day, “10 years of IAAD: A decade of collective progress” resonates deeply. It is only through the inclusion of diversity that we find strength. Let us come together to ensure that individuals with albinism are not left behind. Let us work towards a future where they can thrive, free from the fear of skin cancer and discrimination.
In commemoration of this day, I propose partnership with individuals, organizations/institutions and development partners to collectively scale up a new dawn for the Albinism community in Nigeria especially in the Southern region while planning on manufacturing sunscreen factory locally to enhance productivity, accessibility, inclusivity, innovation and longevity. I believe this can be done, it was done in Tanzania and for Nigeria that has more persons with Albinism, it’s even more necessary for it’s only in inclusion that we find strength.
Together, we can create a brighter future for individuals with albinism in Nigeria. Let us shine a light on their struggles and triumphs, and work towards a society that values and includes all.
Mrs. Nnene Bassey
Executive Director of Advocacy for Persons with Albinism Network, Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities in Akwa ibom State Nigeria and 2024 Mandela Washington Fellow.
LinkedIn: Nnene Bassey
Instagram: nnenebassey
For more about EDF’s work on Climate Action, visit our webpage